Horse breeds / Kathiawari
Photo: Raghvendra99674010 · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Horse breed
Kathiawari
The Kathiawari comes from the Kathiawar Peninsula in Gujarat, western India, where it was developed over centuries by local breeders and the Kathi people. It was bred as a tough, practical war and cavalry horse, valued for its endurance and its ability to thrive on sparse forage in a hot, arid landscape.
Kathiawaris are known for their distinctive inward-curving ears that often meet at the tips, a fine head, and a spirited, alert presence. They are typically intelligent, forward-thinking horses with a strong bond to their handlers. They can be sensitive and quick to react, so they suit confident, patient owners better than complete novices. Their smooth, lively way of going makes them comfortable to ride over long distances.
Day to day, a Kathiawari needs regular work to stay content, along with turnout time to move and graze. They do best with companionship, since they can become bored or anxious when left alone for long periods. Consistent routines, good shelter from extreme heat and cold, and attentive daily handling will help them stay settled.
Good for: Experienced riders, trail and endurance enthusiasts
| Size | small |
| Weight | 772–992 lb |
| Height | 56–60 in |
| Life span | 25–30 years |
| Exercise | about 60 min a day |
| Shedding | moderate |
| Origin | India |
Kathiawaris are sensitive and spirited, so choose one with a calm temperament and get experienced guidance early.
Living with a Kathiawari
Exercise
Most healthy adults benefit from around an hour of ridden or in-hand work most days, plus turnout to move freely. Too little work and turnout can lead to boredom, restlessness, and unwanted behavior.
Grooming
Kathiawaris have a fine, short coat that is easy to keep clean with regular brushing. Mane and tail are typically kept natural and simple to maintain. Hooves need regular trimming or shoeing, and clipping is rarely needed.
At home
Kathiawaris are hardy and do well in a variety of climates, though they handle heat better than heavy wet cold. Daily turnout in a safe paddock is ideal, with stabling used for shelter and management as needed. They are happiest in a herd or with a stablemate. They are generally easy keepers and often need only good forage and modest concentrates.
Training
Kathiawaris are quick to learn and respond well to clear, consistent training methods. They excel on the trail and in endurance work, and many show a natural aptitude for dressage and light performance. A green Kathiawari may be sensitive and forward, so expect a thoughtful, patient start and steady progress rather than rushed schooling.
Health
Kathiawaris are generally considered hardy, but owners should be aware of common equine concerns such as laminitis, particularly if they become overweight. Because breed-specific health data is limited, ask a veterinarian about screening and preventive care suited to your horse.
- Laminitis
- Colic
- Metabolic issues
Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.
The numbers for a Kathiawari
Forage and water, adult
13–22 lb of hay a day
Forage at 1.5–2.5% of body weight at 772–992 lb, and 8–14 gallons of water, more in heat and on hay alone. Grain only for the work being done.
What a year costs
$2,750–$4,750
Hay about $1,533, plus farrier every 6–8 weeks, routine vet, dental and dewormer. Board, lessons and showing on top; US averages.
Weather
Watch above 80°F, stop at 90°F
Blanket or shelter below 10°F. Horses mind heat more than cold: with shelter and water most are fine to about 10°F unclipped, and above a heat index of 150 (air °F + humidity %) ride early or not at all.
Where a Kathiawari is comfortable
Easy most of the year: Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Washington, DC, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.
Summer needs care (early rides, shade, fans): Arizona, Nevada, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah.
Winter needs care (blanket, shelter, water that is not frozen): North Dakota.
From typical July highs and January lows by state and this breed's heat and cold limits. Shade, shelter and water change everything; this is about turnout and work.
Right now
Latest feed recalls
Multiple Brand Names: Chicken Feed, Swine Feed, Cattle Feed, Horse Feed
ADM Animal Nutrition · Apr 1 · Specific lots may contain elevated levels of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium and/or chloride and may harm chickens, swine, beef cattle and equine.
Rescue a Kathiawari
Shelters and breed rescues list Kathiawaris and Kathiawari mixes every week. Search adoptable Kathiawaris on Petfinder → New to the breed? The first-horse kit →
Is a Kathiawari right for you?
- Yes if you enjoy long, steady trail rides
- Yes if you have patience with a sensitive, forward horse
- Yes if you want a hardy horse for varied climates
- Think twice if you are a complete beginner
- Think twice if you cannot offer daily companionship and work
Questions owners ask
Is the Kathiawari good for beginners?
Generally no. Their sensitivity and forward nature suit confident riders better, though a well-trained, calm individual can work for an experienced beginner with good instruction.
How much does a Kathiawari cost?
Prices vary widely by bloodline, training, and location. Contact reputable breeders or sellers in your area for current pricing.
How tall is a Kathiawari?
Adults typically stand around 142 to 152 centimeters at the withers, roughly 14 to 15 hands, though individuals vary.
How long do Kathiawaris live?
With good care they commonly live about 25 to 30 years, similar to many other hardy horse breeds.
Are Kathiawaris easy keepers?
Yes, they are generally efficient on forage and often need only modest feed, but monitor body condition to avoid weight gain.
Similar breeds
Written by Hoofdeck editors · updated Nov 13, 2026 · facts from Wikidata and Wikimedia Commons; health notes are general veterinary guidance, not a diagnosis.