Horse holding nose up in the air?

Question

OK, horse peeps, I've got a new one. Have talked to vet and chiro, and they aren't concerned, but I am.

My coming 6 year old mare has suddenly started raising her nose skyward in a stretching fashion. This happens in the pasture and in the stall, not when being ridden. It occurs sporadically, I can't see a pattern or stimulus. She doesn't seem uncomfortable, it is almost like she is sniffing the air.  I do not think it is a photo-sensitive reaction, I've had one of those, and he flung his head, she is just lifting/stretching it.

I know it doesn't sound like much, but anytime they have a change in behavior, I worry.

Any ideas?

partly cloudy · Accepted Answer

Have you had her eyes examined?  As I recall when my friends app gelding started having problems with moon blindness this is what he did too.

MLaurie · Answer

It's not really a sign of friendship - more of a horse getting used to the new scent. Hence when a new horse joins a herd, they will all under go this process - but then this is often followed by a squeal and some rejection before they are later accepted into a herd when they learn they aren't a threat - so not hugely a sign of friendship, just letting the horse suss you out.

lakelady · Answer

Does she roll her lip up too? OK, I'm guessing Flehmen response. Here's an explanation;
http://www.ker.com/library/EquineReview/2008/HorseWorld/HW41.pdf

Missy B · Answer

Horses raise their heads like that to look at something and focus on it. Could she be looking at something specific?

zephania666 · Answer

I agree.  Flehmen response.  Here's what it looks like - though it can be longer or shorter, milder or more dramatic - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E4xEVPyp2j4

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Horse holding nose up in the air?

5 Answers