A study on the limb conformational defects in equine

The present study was done on the draught equines of Himachal Pradesh to ascertain the occurrence of various kinds of limb conformational defects, and the associated lameness with them. Out of 158 animals studied, limb deformities were observed in 134 cases. Out of these 134 cases, 120 cases were determined to be of limb conformational defects. A total of 350 conformational defects were spotted in these 120 cases. Study revealed that the overall incidence of limb conformational defects in equines was 75.94%. Incidence was 76.47% in horses, 77.36% in mules and 66.67% in donkeys. Females showed greater incidence of limb defects (80.38%) as compared to males (67.85%). Animals <1 and >8 years of age showed higher incidence of limb defects (100% and 83.3%, respectively). Forelimbs were more frequently involved as compared to hind limbs. Most of the animals had multiple limb conformational defects (75%) as compared to singular defects (25%). Highest number of limb conformational defects was "toe out" in forelimbs followed by "carpus valgus" and "tarsus valgus". Despite high incidence of limb conformational defects, most equines did not show any visible lameness (56.96%); some cases showed mild lameness (11.39%) to moderate lameness (5.06%), and only few cases showed severe lameness (2.53%).