Prevalence of nuchal crest adiposity in horses in Kaduna State, Nigeria - association with obesity status and risk factors

Nuchal crest adiposity is defined as an excess of fat around the top of the neckline, often referred to as cresty neck. It is critical to investigate nuchal crest adiposity because of its association with health issues, including insulin resistance and laminitis. The study sought to ascertain the prevalence of nuchal crest adiposity (dropping neck) in Kaduna State, Nigeria, as well as its association with obesity status and risk factors. A cross-sectional study was conducted. In total, 116 horses were assessed. The cresty neck score and body condition score (modified Henneke technique) were used to measure nuchal crest adiposity and obesity, respectively. Horses with cresty neck scores >= 3 were considered to have nuchal crest adiposity, whereas horses with scores >= 7 were considered obese. A structured questionnaire was used to collect information on feeding and management; age was determined through dentition; and information about breed and sex were recorded. Logistic regression analysis was used to examine the factors associated with nuchal crest adiposity while a chi square was used to test for the association between obesity and nuchal crest adiposity status. The overall prevalence of nuchal crest adiposity obtained was 15.5 % (18/116). Obesity and nuchal crest adiposity were shown to be strongly associated. Housing and exercise were factors associated with increased odds of nuchal obesity. The study emphasises the need for efforts to raise awareness within the horse community that nuchal crest adiposity is common.