Comparison of the Current Situation of Equine Headshaking Syndrome in France and Switzerland Based on an Online Survey

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Headshaking syndrome is a frustrating health problem in horses whose aetiopathogenesis is poorly understood. This study was dedicated to investigating signalment and therapeutic interventions in headshakers in France and Switzerland. To do this, an online survey was developed and distributed via the Internet. This showed that mainly middle-aged geldings were affected. The breeding distribution matched the breeding distribution of the relevant country. Furthermore, alternative healing methods were used by the horse owners, which have not yet been scientifically examined. Overall, it was possible to formulate conclusions regarding signalment and therapies used in practice. ABSTRACT: Equine headshaking syndrome (EHS) is characterised as non-physical and involuntary movement of the horse’s head and neck. Although EHS is clinically simple to diagnose, its aetiopathogenesis often remains unclear. The aim of this study was to gain an overview of signalment and therapy possibilities used in France and Switzerland. To do this, an online survey was developed and distributed via newsletters. A total of 933 complete, answered surveys from France (n = 804) and Switzerland (n = 129) were evaluated. The median age in France was 12.4 years (CH = 14.3). Mostly geldings were affected (58.5%(FRA), 57.4%(CH)). There was an association with Warmbloods in Switzerland (55.8%(CH)), but in France, in addition to Warmbloods (34.4%(FRA)), Thoroughbreds (27.2%(FRA)) were also affected. Moreover, horses affected by EHS often show stereotypical behaviour (15.7%(FRA), 14.7%(CH)). A total of 38.4%(FRA) and 67.4%(CH) of horse owners utilised therapy measures, with nose covers being most commonly used (19.9%(FRA), 30.2%(CH)). Horse owners resorted to alternative treatments that had not previously been studied in context with EHS (15%(FRA), 20.9%(CH)). Conservative treatments, such as medication, were used by 5.4%(CH) and 1.9%(FRA). This study provides an overview of the status of horses affected by EHS in France and Switzerland and thus offers a fundamental step to understanding the consequences of welfare issues associated with EHS.