Are horses that exhibit ataxic gait and have difficulty standing still described as which condition?

• A. Laminitis
• B. Navicular Disease
• C. Cushing's
• D. Wobblers

Answer: (B)

Ataxia with difficulty standing still points to a neurological problem that disrupts balance and coordinated movement. In horses, the scenario most consistent with this combination is Wobbler syndrome, or cervical vertebral malformation, where compression of the cervical spinal cord impairs motor control and proprioception. The horse often shows an unsteady, wobbly gait, a wide-based stance to try to maintain balance, and difficulty maintaining an upright position, all of which reflect disruption of the neural pathways that coordinate limb movements. This is a central, neurologic issue rather than a localized limb or hoof problem.

Navicular disease would present mainly as localized lameness of the front feet, with hoof-pastern pain and sensitivity rather than a generalized ataxic gait. Laminitis causes hoof pain and a characteristic protective stance, but not the widespread incoordination seen with a cervical spinal issue. Cushing's disease is an endocrine disorder with systemic signs and does not primarily produce an ataxic gait.