Walking around the stable boxes you may have noticed that one funny horse is constantly biting the fence. Every time you arrive he’s doing the same thing. Biting the fence over and over almost like if he wants to pull it out from the ground.
While it may look funny to watch, that behavior is often the cause of some major health issues in horses and one of the most direct consequences of boredom and stress in horses. That is what is commonly called cribbing or crib-biting.
First of all, what is horse cribbing?
Cribbing is a compulsive behavior in horses in which they grab onto a fixed object, such as a fence or stall door, with their teeth, arch their necks, and pull back while sucking in air. This behavior is also known as crib-biting or wind-sucking.
Cribbing is considered a bad habit because it can lead to health problems, such as dental wear, weight loss, and colic. It can also cause damage to fences, stalls, and other structures that horses may use for cribbing.
In some countries (like Italy for example), when purchasing a horse you have a 30 days window during which if one of the “hidden defects” in the horse shows up, you have the full right in front of the law to give back the horse to the previous owner and ask for full refund. The list of “hidden defects” includes for example uveitis (that usually shows symptoms every 30-45 days), stall circling and waving and cribbing.
For those lucky ones who has never seen horses engaging in crib-biting, this is a short video that shows you what it looks like:
What causes cribbing?
The exact cause of cribbing in horses is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to a combination of genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors. Some horses may develop cribbing due to stress, boredom, or a lack of social interaction. Other horses may have a genetic predisposition to the behavior.
There is a correlation between horse stallment and cribbing, as horses that are kept in stalls for long periods of time without enough social interaction and mental stimulation are more likely to develop cribbing. This is because horses are naturally social animals that require regular interaction with other horses. Access to pasture or other forms of exercise are a must have to maintain their physical and mental well-being.
Horses that are stabled for long periods of time may become bored and frustrated, which can lead to the development of cribbing behavior. The repetitive nature of cribbing can be soothing to horses, and some may develop a compulsion to engage in the behavior.
What to do if your horse is engaging in cribbing behavior
If you notice your horse engaging in cribbing behavior, it is essential to take immediate action to address the issue. Firstly, it is recommended to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to the behavior. Your veterinarian can also offer advice on management strategies and may recommend certain medications or supplements if appropriate.
It is crucial to provide mental and physical stimulation to your horse to reduce the risk of cribbing. Providing your horse with regular turnout, access to pasture, and toys or other forms of enrichment can help keep them mentally stimulated and reduce the risk of developing cribbing.
Feeding management is another aspect that can help in managing cribbing behavior. Some horses may develop cribbing behavior due to digestive issues such as ulcers or acid reflux. Your veterinarian can advise on dietary changes or supplements that may be helpful in managing these conditions.
A cribbing collar is a specialized piece of equipment that can be used to discourage cribbing behavior. It works by restricting the horse’s ability to arch their neck and suck in air while cribbing. However, it is important to note that cribbing collars should be used with caution and under the guidance of a veterinarian, as they can cause discomfort or injury if not used properly.
Addressing any underlying issues, such as a lack of social interaction, separation anxiety, or a change in routine, can help reduce the horse’s stress levels and reduce the risk of cribbing. Taking a proactive approach to managing cribbing behavior can help keep your horse healthy and happy.
Other signs of stress in stabled horses
Stress in stabled horses can present itself in various ways. Horses that are under stress may show signs of aggression towards other horses, people or objects in their environment. They may also exhibit other kinds of repetitive behaviors such as weaving, or stall-walking. Additionally, stress can affect a horse’s appetite and digestion, leading to weight loss or digestive issues such as colic or diarrhea. Horses under stress may become more restless or nervous or may become lethargic and unresponsive.
Physical symptoms such as sweating, increased heart rate, rapid breathing, and muscle tension may also be apparent in horses that are under stress. Furthermore, horses may exhibit changes in social behavior, such as avoiding other horses or becoming overly dependent on one particular horse. They may also avoid contact with humans or become more sensitive to touch.
It is important to note that horses are individuals and may display different signs of stress. As such, it is essential to monitor your horse’s behavior and physical condition for any changes. If you notice any changes, immediately consult with a veterinarian to rule out any emerging medical conditions.
Add variety to your stable routine
Try to vary the activities you engage your horse in as much as possible. If for any reason you are unable to ride your horse, there are still plenty of activities that you can do with them to spend some quality time together. Take a look at this article where I list and explain in detail five different activities that you can do with your horse besides riding.
Whatever you decide to do to address your horse’s cribbing behavior, just remember that nothing works better than a balanced lifestyle. Good quality hay, friends, and enough space to move around are the best remedies against any form of stress. This approach works for horses and humans alike, with the exception of the hay, of course.
