We have an important update on our three-time winning chaser Cave Article, who has recently undergone further veterinary examinations after showing signs of discomfort through his back.

Trainer Christian Williams and the veterinary team have been working to establish the cause of his discomfort and following a series of examinations and X-rays, Cave Article has been diagnosed with a condition known as kissing spine. Although kissing spine can be a serious and painful condition, the findings in Cave Article's case are relatively encouraging, with only three spaces identified as being affected and thankfully, the veterinary team believe he should respond well to treatment and rehabilitation.

Understanding Cave Article's diagnosis

Earlier this year, Cave Article received treatment to his hocks after showing signs of stiffness and not moving as freely as expected. His jockey had also felt that he wasn't jumping as well as usual during his previous race.

When the vet examined him again on 7th October, there were some positive findings. The lameness previously found in his hind limbs had improved and the soreness around his sacroiliac region had resolved. A gastroscopy also confirmed that his stomach was healthy, with no signs of ulcers. However, Cave Article was still experiencing some discomfort through his back, with tension and muscle spasms particularly noticeable around and behind the saddle area.

Further X-rays were taken on 23rd October and revealed three areas of kissing spine. Kissing spine occurs when the bony projections along a horse's spine, known as the dorsal spinous processes, sit unusually close together or come into contact. This can cause irritation and significant discomfort, particularly when a horse is working or carrying a rider. Whilst the condition can be serious, the vet has described Cave Article's findings as relatively limited and believes he has a good chance of responding positively to treatment.

An X-ray of Cave Article's back, taken on 23rd October. The veterinary team identified three affected spaces associated with kissing spine.

In the video below, the vet explains the findings in more detail, including how the condition may be affecting Cave Article and the treatment options available.

WATCH: Cave Article's Vet talk us through his findings

Treatment and rehabilitation

Following the diagnosis, Cave Article has now received his first steroid injection to help reduce inflammation and relieve discomfort in his back.

The veterinary team initially recommended a shorter-acting steroid treatment, which offers a shorter medication withdrawal period and the possibility of returning to racing sooner if he responds well. A longer-acting treatment remains an option if further intervention is required, although this would involve a more extended and less predictable withdrawal period.

An important part of Cave Article's recovery will be rebuilding strength through his back. The vet has identified some weakness along his topline, along with a rolling movement through his pelvis, which may be contributing to his discomfort.

The next stage will involve a period of rehabilitation, including lunging, long reining and exercises designed to encourage him to stretch, relax and strengthen his back muscles.

If he responds well to treatment and progresses as hoped, the veterinary team believes a return to racing within approximately two to four weeks of treatment could be possible, provided the shorter-acting medication was used. However, this will depend on his recovery and the relevant medication withdrawal requirements.

Looking ahead

Although it's disappointing that Cave Article has experienced this setback, there are several encouraging aspects to the latest findings. The earlier issues affecting his hind limbs and sacroiliac region have improved and the veterinary team now has a clearer understanding of the discomfort that he has been experiencing so now we can develop a plan to work with.

With his first injection now administered, the focus now turns to how Cave Article responds to treatment and progresses through his rehabilitation programme.

As always, Cave Article's welfare remains our priority and Christian will continue working closely with the veterinary team to ensure he is comfortable and making good progress before any decisions are made about his return to the racecourse.