Horse
Breed Description:
The Kathiawari breed of horse is a small horse that has been bred in India for centuries. The Kathiawari has many distinctive features that identify the breed, but no one feature is so prominent or as easily recognized as the ears. The Kathiawari’s ears curve in and downward, and both ears are turned toward each other, touching at the tips. This adds to the already striking features of the breed, such as a very refined head and elegant lines throughout- the neck, legs, back, and hips are all slender, yet muscular. The Kathiawari breed of horse has a long back that terminates in a tail of moderate size that is both set and carried high. The hooves of a Kathiawari are small but hard, and they are known to be cow-hocked. Kathiawari’s may occur in many different colors, including bay, chestnut, variations of crème, dun, sobino and tobiano pinto, and palomino. Some Kathiawari’s may have black lines running along their back, or zebra markings on their legs. The Kathiawari is highly regarded in India as a beautiful animal, and this is evident in the proportional body lines, tapered muzzle and concave profile.
Temperament:
The Kathiawari breed of horse has been living in close proximity to its handlers for more than 600 years. In many Indian tribes and communities the Kathiawari is a valued and well-loved animal, often being brought inside at night for safety, and occasionally being fed special rations. Because of this, the Kathiawari is a very docile and relaxed horse, unmoved by loud sounds or sudden movements. The Kathiawari breed of horse is exceptionally gentle and highly intelligent, and can be used for numerous purposes.
Height:
14.2 hh to 15 hh
Health Problems:
The Kathiawari horse breed is generally free from serious health issues. Centuries of regimented breeding programs have insured that the horse is hardy and able to subsist on meager rations while performing well. However, some specimens of the breed have a tendency to become unpredictable, which could result in injury. Furthermore, Kathiawari’s are very hard-working animals, and may continue working without complaint even if they are ill or injured. For this reason, care must be taken to be sure that the animal is in sufficient enough health for strenuous work.
Origin:
The Kathiawari breed of horse is considered the oldest breed in India, and nearly all modern breeds currently in use in the country were developed using Kathiawari blood. Several theories exist as to how the breed was originally created. Based upon the characteristics exhibited by the breed, the most likely explanation is that ponies in use during the 15th century were crossed with Arabians. Breeding was selective but scattered and unorganized until the Indian government took control of breeding the Kathiawari. Today, the Kathiawari stud is still managed exclusively by the Indian government. 