Can horses cry?

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By Rachel

Quick Peek:

Do horses shed tears like humans when they’re sad? Nope, not really. But they do have tear ducts that can produce tears when they’re feeling irritated, like when they have an injury or are in pain. Dust, dirt, debris, infections, and injuries can all cause eye irritation in horses, so it’s important for their owners to keep their eyes clean and free of debris. If you notice any signs of eye irritation, it’s best to contact a vet pronto.

Do Horses Cry?

As a horse enthusiast, I have often wondered if horses cry like humans do. The answer is not as straightforward as we might think. While horses do not openly weep like we do, they do have functioning tear ducts that can come into play when there is an irritation. So, can horses cry? Let’s explore this topic further.

Why Do Humans Cry?

Before we dive into whether horses can cry or not, let’s first understand why humans cry. Tears are a natural response to emotions such as sadness, happiness, anger, or frustration. Tears can also be a response to physical pain or irritation. When we cry, our tear ducts release a salty liquid that flows down our cheeks. This emotional response is unique to humans and a few other animals.

Do Horses Cry?

The general answer for if horses cry is that no, they do not openly weep like people do. However, they do have functioning tear ducts that can come into play when there is an irritation. So, if a horse’s eye is irritated, they may produce tears to flush out the irritant. Horses may also produce tears when they have a physical injury or are experiencing pain.

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What Causes Irritation in Horses’ Eyes?

There are many reasons why a horse’s eyes may become irritated. Some common causes include allergies, dust, dirt, or debris in the eye, infections, and injuries. Horses that spend a lot of time in dusty or windy environments are more prone to eye irritation. It’s important to keep your horse’s eyes clean and free of debris to prevent irritation.

How Can You Tell If Your Horse Is Crying?

Since horses do not cry like humans do, it can be challenging to tell if your horse is experiencing eye irritation. However, there are a few signs to look out for. If your horse is blinking excessively, squinting, or rubbing their eyes, they may be experiencing eye irritation. You may also notice discharge or redness around their eyes. If you suspect your horse is experiencing eye irritation, it’s essential to contact your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while horses do not cry like humans do, they do have functioning tear ducts that can come into play when there is an irritation. If you notice any signs of eye irritation in your horse, it’s essential to contact your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment. As horse enthusiasts, it’s our responsibility to keep our horses healthy and happy. So, keep your horse’s eyes clean and free of debris, and always be on the lookout for signs of eye irritation.

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