Why does my horse’s stocking up come and go?

Read time: 3 minutes

Overview

Stocking up often comes and goes because it’s usually linked to movement, turnout and how long your horse has been standing still. It can settle down after exercise or active turnout, then reappear after box rest or a quiet spell.

There are several possible reasons, and not all of them are serious. The main thing is to look at the pattern, check for any heat, pain or lameness, and note whether it’s affecting one leg or several.

Things To Check

1. See whether the swelling appears after stabling, overnight rest or long periods of standing.

2. Check if it improves after walking, turnout or normal exercise.

3. Look closely for heat, tenderness, cuts, scabs, mud fever, insect bites or any broken skin.

4. Compare both legs and note whether the swelling is even or only on one limb.

5. Watch for lameness, stiffness, reluctance to move or a shortened stride.

6. Check the stable, bedding and turnout conditions, especially if the horse has been on box rest or standing on deep, wet or muddy ground.

7. Note whether the swelling returns at the same time each day or after the same routine.

Common Causes

The most common cause is simple fluid build-up from reduced movement. Many horses get puffy legs after standing still for a while, then look better once they move about.

Turnout patterns can also play a part. A horse that has been stabled more than usual, boxed rested or left standing for long periods may be more likely to stock up.

Wet or muddy conditions, minor skin irritation and mild knocks can all contribute as well, especially if the legs are not being checked regularly.

Less commonly, recurring stocking up may be linked to something that needs veterinary attention, such as infection, injury, pain elsewhere in the limb or a circulation issue. You usually can’t rule these out from appearance alone.

What To Do

Keep a simple note of when the swelling appears, how long it lasts and whether exercise makes it better. A quick photo can help you spot changes over time.

Make sure your horse has regular movement where possible. Frequent turnout, hand walking or a sensible exercise routine may help if the swelling is related to standing still.

Check legs daily so you can spot heat, tenderness or skin damage early. If the legs are muddy, clean them gently and dry them well before turning the horse out or bringing them in.

If the stocking up is mild, even and improves with movement, it often helps to keep the routine steady and avoid long periods of standing still where you can.

When To Contact A Vet

Contact your vet if the swelling is only in one leg, is hot or painful, your horse is lame, or the stocking up does not improve with movement. It’s also sensible to get advice if it keeps returning without an obvious reason or your horse seems unwell.

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