Effect of pony morphology and hay feeding methods on back and neck postures.
Authors: Bordin Clara, Raspa Federica, Harris Patricia, Ellis Andrea Dorothea, Roggero Angela, Palestrini Claudia, Bergero Domenico, Valle Emanuela
Journal: Journal of animal physiology and animal nutrition
Summary
# Effect of Pony Morphology and Hay Feeding Methods on Back and Neck Postures Hay feeding devices such as nets and slow feeders are widely recommended for weight management in ponies, yet their influence on postural mechanics remains poorly characterised—an important gap given that posture underpins musculoskeletal health and long-term soundness. Using geometric morphometric analysis on video recordings, researchers compared how Shetland and Welsh Cob type ponies (n=9) adopted different postures when fed from the ground, fully filled haynets, partially filled haynets, and slow-feeder hay boxes. Both breed types reduced their mandibular angle significantly with all feeding devices compared to ground feeding, suggesting altered masticatory biomechanics; however, back and neck postural adaptation differed meaningfully between breeds, with Shetland ponies showing similar cervical responses to small-holed nets but divergent responses when using hay boxes or feeding at ground level. The findings imply that feeding method selection cannot be considered independently from individual pony morphology if practitioners wish to optimise postural alignment, though the authors appropriately acknowledge that longitudinal data are needed to establish whether short-term postural shifts translate into clinically relevant musculoskeletal consequences. For farriers, physiotherapists, and nutritionists working with ponies prone to metabolic disease, these results warrant consideration of the individual's conformation when prescribing slow-feeding systems, particularly regarding potential effects on neck and lumbar stability.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Hay feeding devices reduce mandibular angle in ponies compared to ground feeding—monitor for potential long-term effects on jaw biomechanics and temporomandibular joint health
- •Pony breed morphology significantly influences postural response to feeding methods; Shetland and Welsh Cob types require individualized consideration when selecting feeding devices
- •Slow-feeder hay boxes and partially filled nets produce different neck and back postures than fully filled nets or ground feeding—consider postural implications alongside weight management goals when choosing feeding systems
Key Findings
- •Shetland and Welsh Cob ponies showed significantly different body morphometric measurements and responded differently to feeding methods
- •Both breed types reduced their mandibular angle with all feeding devices compared to ground feeding
- •Neck posture adapted similarly between breeds with small-holed hay nets but differed significantly when feeding from ground or hay boxes
- •Back postures consistently differed by both breed type and feeding method, with ponies arching their backs differently across conditions