What is meant by "slab-sided"?

Question

"Slab-sided" sounds like a conformation fault, but what exactly does it mean and look like? How about a "coon foot"?

Answer 1

It is the opposite of well sprung ribs.  the sides of the horse fall away because the ribs are more flattened out or vertical than is desireable, meaning less space for the heart and lungs, and potentially less stamina as the result.  There is limited room for the lungs to expand. A coon foot is one that has a steeper slope than the angle of the pastern, which may also lead to fetlock drop.  The suspensory ligaments are weak and the horse is prone to fetlock joint injuries.