When horses breathe in, what happens to their diaphragm and rib muscles?

When horses breathe in, their diaphragm and rib muscles expand to increase chest volume. This process is essential for drawing air into the lungs. The diaphragm, a dome-shaped muscle located beneath the lungs, contracts and moves downward. Simultaneously, the intercostal muscles between the ribs also contract, leading to an outward expansion of the chest cavity. This combination of actions decreases the pressure within the thoracic cavity, allowing air to flow into the lungs as the respiratory system prepares for gas exchange.

The increase in chest volume is a crucial aspect of respiration, as it enables the horse to take in enough oxygen to support its metabolic needs, especially during activities such as exercise. Understanding this mechanism is key for anyone involved in horse care and management, as it influences performance and overall health.