© RSPCA 2009. All rights reserved.

The right pet for you?
Owning a horse or pony is rewarding, but a huge responsibility and very hard work. You need a lot of land, time, money and commitment.

What do horses and ponies need?

• Companionship - to be with other horses, ponies, donkeys, goats or cattle and to have human company.
• Regular and frequent feeds of grass and fresh hay, apples, carrots and corn feed.
• A constant supply of fresh, clean water to drink.
• At least one hectare of pasture, with strong and safe fencing. This must be well managed and ideally divided in two, so that one area of grass can be rested while the other is used. Check for poisonous plants.
• A shelter to protect them from cold, windy or hot weather.
• Daily exercise or to be turned out in a large area.
• To have stones and grit removed from their hooves every day before and after exercise.
• If they are kept in a stable, they must be groomed and mucked out every day.
• Visits from a farrier every four to eight weeks.
• To be microchipped in case they are lost or stolen.
• To be visited by a vet if they are ill or injured.
• Regular injections to prevent certain serious diseases.
• Worming every six to eight weeks.
• To be looked after when you are on holiday.

Life span
Most horses and ponies live for over 20 years.

Behaviour
Horses and ponies are herd animals and may get upset if kept alone. Human company is also important. It is better for them to live outside than be permanently stabled, but they must have shelter available. All horses and ponies need to be able to roam and graze in a field or paddock.

Training and handling
Before taking on the responsibility of a horse or pony, do make sure you have had adequate tuition in horse care. Training may be available from a reputable riding school or equestrian centre. Alternatively, contact the British Horse Society on 0870 12 02 244.

Horses and ponies are very sensitive animals and are easily frightened or upset. Approach their heads slowly and speak as you do so. Sudden noises or unexpected movements can cause alarm and make the animal difficult to handle.

Breeding
The RSPCA advises you do not breed from your horse or pony unless you have the facilities and expertise to properly care for a foal.

Females (mares) over three years old come into season every three weeks from early spring to midsummer. Males (stallions) reach breeding age at two years. A castrated male is called a gelding. Males should be castrated before they are two years old.

Health
Horses and ponies should be vaccinated against serious diseases, including equine flu and tetanus. Equine flu is a very contagious virus - symptoms include fever, cough, runny eyes and nose, depression and loss of appetite. Do not ride a horse or pony with a cough except on veterinary advice.

If a horse or pony's breathing becomes louder and more noticeable at rest and during light exercise, they may have broken wind, also known as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and will need to see a vet.

A horse or pony may develop colic - pain in the stomach due to indigestion, gas, or worms. Seek veterinary advice straight away. Horses should be routinely treated for worms.

Laminitis is a very painful inflammation of the sensitive part inside the hooves. It can cause lameness and deformity, so seek veterinary advice straight away. Too much food and too little exercise cause it.

Horses and ponies may suffer from thrush, a foul smelling inflammation in the foot. This is caused by dirty, wet bedding or poor farriery.

It is a good idea to take out insurance to cover veterinary fees for your horse or pony.

Download a print-friendly care sheet:

Pony and horse care sheet - updated 1Feb07