Horse Cribbing
What is cribbing and how can we prevent and deter this undesirable behaviour?
Horse cribbing, also known as crib-biting or wind-sucking, is a repetitive behaviour in which a horse grasps a solid object with its front teeth, arches its neck, and sucks in air. This behaviour is considered a stable vice, which means it is a compulsive habit that horses may develop due to various factors, including boredom, stress, and underlying physical or psychological issues. Cribbing can be concerning for horse owners because it can lead to dental problems, weight loss, and wear on the horse's front teeth and cribbing surface.
Reasons why horses crib:
Boredom and confinement: Horses may crib as a way to cope with boredom, especially when kept in stables or small paddocks for extended periods without enough mental stimulation and social interaction.
Stress and anxiety: Some horses may crib in response to stress or anxiety, which can be caused by changes in their environment, routine, or social dynamics.
Ulcers or gastrointestinal discomfort: Cribbing has been associated with gastric ulcers and other digestive issues, as horses may crib to release natural endorphins that provide temporary relief.
Learned behavior: Horses are social animals and can learn cribbing from other horses who already engage in the behavior.
Lack of forage: Insufficient access to forage or poor-quality hay may lead some horses to develop cribbing as a way to self-soothe.
Ways to deter cribbing behavior:
Increasing turnout time: Allowing horses more time to graze and socialize with other horses in a larger pasture can help reduce boredom and stress.
Providing mental stimulation: Introducing toys or puzzle feeders can keep horses engaged and prevent boredom.
Regular exercise: Providing regular exercise and training can help keep the horse's mind and body active.
Environmental changes: Using cribbing collars or anti-cribbing strips on surfaces the horse cribs on can physically discourage the behavior.
Dietary adjustments: Ensuring a balanced diet with access to ample forage can reduce the likelihood of cribbing due to digestive discomfort. Provide slow feeding systems to provide small, frequent feeds.
Social interaction: Horses are social animals, and ensuring they have companionship can reduce stress and boredom.
Veterinary examination: If cribbing behavior is sudden or becomes severe, it's essential to have a veterinarian examine the horse to rule out any underlying health issues.
It's important to note that while some deterrents may reduce cribbing, they may not completely eliminate the behavior in all horses. Cribbing can become ingrained in some animals, especially if it has been ongoing for an extended period. As with any behavioral issue, it's always best to consult with a veterinarian or equine behavior specialist to develop a tailored management plan for each horse.