Cresty Neck Scoring
In humans, regional fat deposition, such as around the abdomen, is more closely linked to metabolic disease (eg. Diabetes) than overall body fat. This also seems to be the case for horses, with excess fat across the neck being associated with increased circulating insulin and insulin resistance, which may increase the risk of problems, such as Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) and laminitis. For this reason, a standardised Cresty Neck Score (CNS) has been developed for objective assessment of the neck and fat deposits that are laid down here.
It’s important to distinguish between a well-developed top line/muscly neck and one which is carrying fat so it’s vital to not only stand back and look at the horse, but also to feel and palpate the thickness and fatty deposits. Generally speaking, muscle will be harder and smooth to feel, whereas fat may be spongier.
Cresty Neck Scores (CNS) roughly correlate with BCS scores of 5 and above, however, it’s possible for a horse to have an ideal middle and hindquarters but to still have a large cresty neck. A cresty neck score of 3 out of 5, or higher, has been found to be associated with an increased risk of laminitis, so it’s important to monitor this on a regular basis, particularly in Native breeds that may be at a greater risk of developing a cresty neck. Stallions, or male horses that have been gelded late, may have “big necks” so it’s important to ensure that this smooth muscle, rather than fat.
Remember to Body Condition Score your horse, alongside its Cresty Neck Score.
0
There is no visible or palpable crest.
1
No visual crest is present but there is a slight filling on palpation.
2
A crest can be seen but fat is deposited fairly evenly from the poll to the withers. Crest can easily be cupped in one hand and is flexible to move from side to side.
3
The crest is thick with fat deposited more heavily in the centre of the neck rather than the poll and the wither. It is enlarged and fills a cupped hand and is not so easily bent from side to side.
4
Grossly enlarged crest which is thickened and may have creases up through the top line. It can no longer be cupped in one hand or bent easily from side to side.
5
The crest is so large that it permanently droops to one side.
