Most common horse health conditions claimed on pet insurance

As a horse owner, you know that maintaining your horse's health is essential. However, even the best care can’t prevent certain conditions. That's where insurance comes in. Horse insurance can help cover vet bills, so you can focus on giving your horse the care they need.

Here are some of the most common health conditions horses face and the costs of treating them, as shown by the average insurance claim.

Top 10 common horse conditions claimed on pet insurance*

* Figures are based on all Agria Pet Insurance claims received between Nov 2023 and May 2024.

1. Equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS) - £616.89 average claim

EGUS is a fairly common condition, especially among horses that undergo intense training. It’s where a horse develops ulcers in their stomach lining. This can cause pain, discomfort, and even more serious issues if left untreated. Signs of EGUS include poor appetite, weight loss, and changes in behaviour. Some horses may also get colic.

A vet will typically diagnose EGUS using an endoscope to examine the stomach lining. Treatment may involve medications like proton pump inhibitors (medications that reduce stomach acid), a change in diet, and reducing stress. Treatments can be ongoing, which can lead to higher costs and claims over time.  

2. Pelvic limb (hindlimb) issues - £459.12 average claim

Pelvic limb conditions refer to injuries or issues affecting the hind legs. This can include fractures, sprains, or joint problems. Signs that something’s wrong here include lameness, reluctance to move, or difficulty standing. Swelling or heat around the affected area is also quite common.

These issues often occur due to trauma, overexertion, or degeneration of the joints or ligaments as a horse gets older. A vet will conduct a lameness exam and may use imaging, such as X-rays, to determine the exact issue. Treatment may involve rest, anti-inflammatory drugs, and sometimes surgery.

Hindlimb injuries may require prolonged treatment or rehabilitation, which can be costly.

3. Thoracic limb (forelimb) issues - £735.18 average claim

Thoracic limb issues affect a horses’ front legs. This includes conditions like fractures, ligament damage, or arthritis. Signs include lameness, discomfort when moving, and swelling. You may notice a horse avoids putting weight on the affected leg too.

Common causes include injury, strenuous exercise, or overuse of certain muscles and joints. Treatment can include rest, anti-inflammatory medications, or, in severe cases, surgery. Front limb injuries tend to be more common and can require extended periods of rehabilitation, leading to higher insurance claims.

4. Colic - £1,114.85 average claim

Colic in horses is a general term for abdominal pain, which can result from various causes, such as gas, impaction (a blockage in a horse’s digestive tract), or twisted intestines. Horses with colic may be visibly distressed, pawing at the ground, rolling, or sweating. A reduced appetite is another sign to watch out for. 

Colic can be triggered by a poor diet, sudden changes in feeding, lack of water, or stress. It can also occur after a horse eats something it shouldn't.

To diagnose the problem, a vet will perform a thorough examination which may include palpation of the abdomen (an exam via the rectum) and possibly an ultrasound or blood tests. Treatment depends on how severe the colic is, but can range from pain relief to surgery. Due to the need for immediate veterinary care and sometimes surgery, colic is one of the more costly claims on this list. 

5. Suspensory ligament desmitis - £608.71 average claim

Desmitis refers to inflammation of the suspensory ligament, which helps support the horse’s legs. It’s common in both athletic and older horses. Signs include limping, swelling, or sensitivity in the affected leg. This condition can result from overwork, poor conformation, or trauma.

Rest is really important for horses with desmitis. Vets may also prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs and sometimes rehabilitation therapies. The recovery process can take time, so treatment for suspensory ligament injuries can lead to higher insurance claims.

6. Osteoarthritis (hock joint) - £526.65 average claim

Osteoarthritis in the hock joint (a group of joints in the hind legs) is a degenerative disease that affects a horse’s mobility. It’s more common in older animals or those with a lot of wear on their joints. Signs include stiffness, lameness, and difficulty with movement, particularly after exercise. Age, past injuries, or repetitive strain on the joint can cause osteoarthritis.

A vet will use X-rays or ultrasound to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment typically involves joint supplements, anti-inflammatory drugs, and sometimes injections of steroids. Ongoing management and potential joint injections can lead to frequent vet visits, adding up over time.

Read more about degenerative joint disease in horses.

7. Wound - £506.66 average claim

Wounds in horses can vary from minor cuts to more serious injuries. These can occur from accidents or rough play. Visible breaks in the skin, swelling, and possible bleeding are common signs. Wounds can happen from trauma, like falling, or from sharp objects.

The vet will clean the wound, assess its depth, and may use stitches or bandages. In some cases, antibiotics are necessary. Wounds often require long-term care, especially if complications like infection arise. This can increase insurance claims.

For more information, read our guide how to clean and bandage a horse wound.

8. Stifle disorder - £717.74 average claim

Stifle disorders affect the horse’s knee joint, which is essential for their movement. These can cause pain, lameness, and limited mobility. Horses may show difficulty bending or bearing weight on the affected leg. Stifle issues can stem from injury, wear and tear, or poor conformation.

Your vet will examine the stifle joint and may take X-rays to diagnose the issue. Treatment can involve rest, medications, and sometimes surgery. Stifle disorders are often costly to treat due to their complex nature and the potential for surgery.

9. Laminitis - £237.14 average claim

Laminitis is a painful condition affecting the hooves. It occurs when the tissues holding the hoof bone to the hoof wall become inflamed. Signs include lameness, heat in the hooves, and reluctance to move. Horses that are overweight, have conditions such as Cushing’s disease or have previously had laminitis are particularly at risk.

A vet will examine the hooves and may take X-rays. Treatment typically involves pain relief, dietary changes, and sometimes corrective hoof trimming. Though it’s less expensive than some conditions, laminitis can still result in ongoing treatments that may raise insurance claims.

10. Sarcoid - £439.51 average claim

Sarcoids are skin tumours that commonly occur in horses. They can be different in size and appearance and are thought to be caused by a virus. Some horses may also be genetically predisposed.

Your vet will examine the growth and may take a biopsy for testing. Treatment options include surgery, laser therapy, or medication. The treatment costs can vary depending on the size and location of the sarcoid, and the need for ongoing care.

Why horse insurance is important

The list of common conditions and their resulting claims shows the importance of having horse insurance to cover any unexpected costs. Policies may cover a range of expenses, including vet fees, ongoing treatments, physiotherapy, MRI and CT scans and certain medication costs (just remember to check the small print before you take out a policy to ensure the cover meets your needs).

Prices with Agria Pet Insurance start from £109.40 for an annual lifetime equine policy and from £9.12 for a monthly lifetime equine policy**.

With this you get access to the Agria app, where you can get free vet video calls and expert advice. 

** Based on all new Agria Equine Lifetime Lite Insurance between Nov 2023 and May 2024.