Which is a sign that a horse needs dental work?

• A. Chewing properly
• B. Eats hay normally
• C. Licks water
• D. Quidding

Answer: (D)

Quidding is a clear sign that dental work may be needed. When a horse drops or spits out small, partly chewed lumps of hay from the mouth, it often means the teeth aren’t grinding properly or are causing pain. This can happen if there are sharp points, hooks, or uneven wear on the teeth, or if the bite doesn’t meet evenly. In such cases, the horse can’t chew effectively, so it spits out the food instead of swallowing it.

Normal chewing, eating hay normally, or licking water don’t indicate dental problems. They suggest the mouth is functioning fine and the horse isn’t experiencing the discomfort or misalignment that leads to quidding. So quidding points toward a need for a dental check and possible floating or other dental care.