According to an article from TheHorse.com written by Katie Navarra titled `Help, My Horse Got Kicked!`, kicking is a natural part of horse behavior. An adult horse weighing over 1,000 pounds is capable of delivering a kick strong enough to cause broken bones or internal injuries.

While the exact force of a horse’s kick is difficult to verify, it should never be underestimated. A horse kick can be fatal depending on the part of the body it strikes and the physical condition of the person being kicked.

Horses are herbivores with strong survival instincts. When they feel threatened or startled, their first instinct is to flee. However, if cornered and unable to escape, they will kick in self-defense.

Additionally, horses may kick to defend their food. Depending on their personality, health conditions like stomach pain, or past traumatic experiences, they can be very protective of their resources.

In certain situations, a horse may kick its own body—especially the belly—due to colic (abdominal pain), itchiness, internal wounds, or discomfort caused by poorly fitting gear. Insect attacks, such as from flies, can also trigger kicking, often accompanied by stomping or tail swishing.

A horse kick can cause broken bones, particularly in the chest, arms, and ribs. If it hits the head, the consequences can be even more severe, such as concussions or traumatic brain injury.

Kicks to the abdomen or back can result in internal bleeding and organ damage. Even when bones are not broken, the kick can still cause severe bruising and painful open wounds.

In 2019, detik.com reported a case involving a male tourist kicked by a wild horse on Assateague Island, USA. When he tried to pet the horse, the animal felt threatened and kicked him directly in the groin.

Although the report did not elaborate on the victim’s condition afterward, the incident demonstrates that even seemingly friendly interactions can provoke dangerous reactions from horses—especially wild ones.

Understanding a horse's natural behavior is crucial to avoiding the risk of being kicked by it. Never approach a horse from behind, as it has a blind spot in that area.

Instead, approach from the side while making gentle sounds so the horse knows your presence. Always wear safety gear such as helmets and closed-toe shoes when around horses. If you're inexperienced, make sure a professional is present to supervise.

A horse kick is not only painful but potentially life-threatening. By understanding their physical power and natural behavior and following proper safety protocols, we can foster safe and respectful interactions between humans and these extraordinary animals.