What is Headshaking in Horses?

While all horses shake their heads in response to flies and other insects, horses with headshaking syndrome display a repetitive, involuntary up-and-down, vertical motion that is more severe and predictable than normal headshaking.

Management Strategies for Horses with Headshaking:

Because all horses are different and headshaking can be caused by multiple factors, it is important to start with a single treatment and continue long enough to conclude if treatment has an effect before trying other strategies.

• UV Mask: Use a 90% UV blocking mask consistently.
• Fly Mask Over Nose: Use a lighter mask or nose net for riding or exercise.
• Dark Places: Keep the horse in a screened or darkened stall during the day, with turnout at night.
• Insect Control: Many headshakers are more sensitive to insects so use fly sprays and sheets to repel bugs.
• Magnesium: Supplementation with magnesium can have a calming effect and support normal functioning of the trigeminal nerve. Boron helps support the absorption of magnesium.

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