Saddle pressure
A saddle pressure is a painful pressure point on the horse's skin . It arises when a riding saddle does not fit properly on horseback ( saddle position ) and therefore presses on the support points. A saddle that fits but is not correctly positioned can also cause saddle pressure, as can saddle pads that are dirty or not placed smoothly.
Roughened hair after removing the saddle or places where the fur breaks off and becomes dull are usually signs of the beginning of saddle pressure. Even if the saddle layer is not evenly sweaty, this is a sign of an unsuitable saddle, because either the dry areas are not touched by the saddle or they are squeezed off so that the production of sweat is prevented. In more advanced stages, the affected area swells and the hair often falls out. When the hair grows back, it usually stays white in colored horses because the skin has been damaged and the pigmentation is disturbed. A saddle must not be placed on the horse until it has healed. If the wounds are open, gaping, or purulent , the vet should be called.
Contrary to many opinions, pads , saddlecloths or saddlecloths are not suitable for preventing saddle pressure. A really fitting saddle can be used without an additional blanket, but it is detrimental for the material of the saddle to be exposed to the sebum and sweat of the horse without protection. Special pressure-absorbing gel pads can only provide a small compensation if a saddle does not fit perfectly. For the well-being of the horse, an uncompromisingly precise fit of the saddle is required. There are various electronic and conventional analysis methods to check the saddle fit and to avoid pressure damage from the saddle. On the standing horse, the relatively exact measurement is possible with the help of measuring grids (back print) or very precisely with the help of 3D scanning processes. The fit can be checked on the ridden horse using computer-controlled pressure measuring mats. With special soft gel pads you can create a negative impression, which shows where the saddle exerts special pressure.
