detecting a fat horse

Question
hello ma'am, how can i say that a horse is fat? is it i can judge the horse by looking at its hind quarters from rear end? is there any other way to detect a fat horse

Answer
Hi Rohit,

Thank you for your question.  In an earlier question I provided you with some information on the body condition scoring system, including a link on how to evaluate BCS.  A horse that is in performance should be maintained at a BCS of 4.5-5, where a broodmare is better at a score of 5.5-6.  Inactive pleasure horses really should stay at a 5...but that becomes more of a matter of personal preference.  In my opinion, lower than a 4 is too thin, and heavier than a 6.5-7 is too fat.  Although I must confess...I feel more comfortable when my horses are a decent BCS of 6, it makes me happy.

Thanks, Corlena