Thoroughbred

Breed: Thoroughbred
Scientific name: Equus caballus
Place of Origin: England
Classification: Hot Blood
Average Price: R25,000 - R150,000+ (for an off-the-track riding horse)

Size Category: large
Avg. Height: 163 cm.
Avg. Weight: 450 to 550 Kg.
Avg. Lifespan: 25 to 28 years.

Colours:
Bay, brown, chestnut, grey, or black.

Covering:
fur

Vocalisation level:
moderate

Temprament:
Spirited, athletic, intelligent, and sensitive. Known for their courage and strong work ethic.

Trainability:
easy

Diet type: herbivore
Feeding frequency: Multiple small meals of concentrate plus constant access to high-quality forage (hay).

Foods to avoid:
Mouldy hay, toxic plants like oleander.

Health Concerns:
Prone to exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH), gastric ulcers, and leg injuries due to their athleticism.

Recommended Supplements:
Electrolytes, joint supplements, and biotin for hooves are common.

Grooming:
Regular daily grooming is required to maintain coat health.

Exercise:
Very high energy; requires daily training, exercise, and turnout.

Handling:
Can be high-strung and are not typically for beginner riders. Requires experienced handling.
Ideal Location:
Concentrated around major racing and equestrian centres like Cape Town, Johannesburg (Kyalami), and Durban (Summerveld).

Space Requirements:
Requires stabling and daily access to a large paddock or field.

Climate Suitability: variable

Temperature Range: Adaptable but requires stabling and blanketing in cold weather.

Humidity Range: Adaptable