[Angelina5201]

I have a 12yr old QH mare and I have recently discovered that her ascending pectoral muscles are sort of protruding, it’s hard to describe, but I can feel and see the muscles on both sides, it doesn’t seem to bother her at all, I’ve poked and touch them and she doesn’t care, but I’ve never seen that before, is it normal? Her vet is coming out next week for her yearly teeth float but I am now worrying about these muscles and wondering if I should bring this to my vets attention. I’ve never noticed them before and I groom her almost daily so I know I would’ve seen it if she has always had it, she’s not bothered by the cinch when I saddle her but it seems odd to me. I have a gelding also and his same muscles are not protruding at all. Am I overreacting or is this a concern?

 

[My Salty Pony]

Its normal, all my geldings are built with strong pectoral muscles. But if your not to sure about this bring it up to your vet to ease your mind.

 

[wvfarrier]

My foundation qh has pecs that are 2" thick...he is a beast!! 😬

 

[QtrBel]

Is the area soft or hard? Heat present? Flinching when palpated? So this is sudden and was not present prior? How long have you owned her and what type of work are you doing with her?

 

[tinyliny]

Could that be what is called a "heave line"?

 

[QtrBel]

Heave line is where abdominal muscles are. Flank back towards pecs but not pecs. 22 on the photo in OP is where the heave line shows. It shows where muscle 22 meets the white portion also labeled 22.

 

[Angelina5201]

Is the area soft or hard? Heat present? Flinching when palpated? So this is sudden and was not present prior? How long have you owned her and what type of work are you doing with her?

The area is kinda in between soft and hard, no heat, doesn’t flinch at all, if she has always had it I never noticed before, I’ve owned her for about a year now, we mainly trail ride in the mountains.

 

[QtrBel]

Pictures?

 

[Angelina5201]

Forgot to update but vet came by and said that it’s completely normal, she just has a lot of muscle!

 

[My Salty Pony]

Forgot to update but vet came by and said that it’s completely normal, she just has a lot of muscle!

Good to hear this, its always better to ask the Vet so you can at least ease your mind..