Why Do Horses Poo When They Get on the Float?

Why Do Horses Poo When They Get on the Float? 

If you’ve ever taken your horse out for a competition, trail ride, or vet appointment, you’ve probably noticed a very common (and messy) behaviour: as soon as your horse steps onto the float, they do a poo. While it might feel like an inconvenience when you’re trying to keep your float clean, this behaviour is actually quite normal and can be explained by equine physiology and psychology. 

Here are 4 key reasons why we see this behaviour so routinely! 

Reason 1; Stress, Flight Response and the Gut 

One of the main reasons horses’ poo when they get onto the float is stress and anticipation. Even if your horse is a seasoned traveller, floating is far from a “natural” situation for them. Horses are prey animals who instinctively like open spaces, so stepping into a confined metal box, that also happens to move, is inherently stressful. 

When a horse feels stress, the body releases adrenaline and other hormones, such as Catecholamines. These chemicals activate the “fight or flight” response, which among other things, increases heart rate, respiration and speeds up gut movement. For many horses, this results in a bowel movement as soon as they enter the float. It’s the body’s way of “lightening the load” and preparing to flee, even though your horse is not actually running away. 

Reason 2; Routine and Anticipation 

Horses are creatures of habit. They quickly learn to associate the float with certain events, such as competitions, clinics, or even a vet visit. The anticipation of what’s coming can trigger excitement or nervousness, both of which affect digestion. Just like some people feel the need to dash to the bathroom before an exam or a big meeting. For more seasoned travellers, some horses may empty their bowels before travel after sighting the float, but for others, confirmation of the trip ahead is granted once they make it on. 

Reason 3; Movement and Posture 

Another contributing factor is the physical act of stepping onto the float. Walking up the ramp, especially on large trucks, and shifting weight into a new position can stimulate the digestive system. Horses carry a large volume of feed and fibre in their gut, so even a small shift in posture or abdominal pressure can encourage a bowel movement. 

Reason 4; Natural Physiology 

It’s also worth remembering that horses poo often, anywhere from 6 to 12 times per day. With such frequent elimination, it’s statistically likely that some of those times will line up with when you’re loading the float. The difference is, you’re far more likely to notice it in the confined space of a float than in a paddock. 

Although floating-related pooing can’t be eliminated completely, there are a few things you can do to manage it: 

• Allow time before travel. Give your horse a chance to settle and relieve themselves before loading. 

• Stay calm. Horses pick up on your energy. A relaxed handler helps reduce their stress. 

• Keep your float clean. Use shavings or rubber mats to make cleaning easier and reduce odour build-up. 

• Condition gradually. The more positive experiences your horse has with the float, the less anxious they’ll become over time. 

• Manage travel anxiety with a calming supplement.  Just like humans, sometimes no matter how hard we try, you just can’t shake the nerves. Supplements such as Ranvet’s Calm Paste may help reduce this anxiety in horses in a way that still allows you to compete!   

In conclusion, horses may poo on the float due to stress, anticipation, body posture, and simple coincidence. It’s not necessarily a sign that something is wrong, but rather an expression of equine physiology and behaviour. Understanding the “why” behind it can help owners manage the mess more patiently, making travel safer and more pleasant for both horse and rider.