The Horse's Mouth, Showing the age by the teeth

"The Horse's Mouth, Showing the Age by the Teeth" by Edward Mayhew is a scientific publication written in the mid-19th century. This work is a comprehensive guide that focuses on equine dental anatomy and the relationship between a horse's age and its teeth. The author evaluates various aspects of horse teeth, including their development, appearance, and the diseases that can affect them, providing essential knowledge for prospective horse owners and veterinarians. The opening of the book establishes the premise that a horse's teeth can indicate its age, a belief rooted in long-standing tradition. Mayhew emphasizes the importance of observation, noting that while horse teeth can provide clues to age, the evidence they present should be weighed alongside direct testimony regarding the horse's history. He also explains the anatomy of equine teeth, discussing the different types of teeth, their arrangement, and the physiological processes involved in their development. The author seeks to provide readers with a thorough understanding of how to assess horse teeth correctly, underlining the need for careful inspection and practice in order to gain proficiencies in identifying the age of horses based on dental characteristics.