Texas Racing Commission License Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Stringhalt is a condition seen in horses that is defined by an exaggerated upward movement of the hind leg during walking or trotting. This involuntary action resembles a snapping motion, where the horse's leg is lifted higher than normal. It often leads to a characteristic gait in affected animals, creating an unusual pattern that is noticeable to observers.

The exact cause of stringhalt is not fully understood, but it is believed to be linked to neurological issues or certain dietary factors, particularly when horses consume certain plants such as the yellow sweet clover. Understanding stringhalt is crucial for horse owners and trainers, as it can impact the horse's performance and overall well-being.

In contrast, the other conditions mentioned in the options relate to different issues. Scalping refers to injuries caused by a horse's hoof striking its own leg during movement, which does not involve an upward motion of the leg. Shoe boils are swellings resulting from irritation or pressure from the horse's shoe, while sweeny refers to atrophy of the shoulder muscles due to nerve damage, both of which do not present the same distinguishing movement patterns as stringhalt.