Farm Animals

Horse Crib-Biting and Stable Vices

Crib-biting, weaving, and box walking are stereotypic behaviours in horses indicating chronic stress from restricted movement and inadequate social contact.

Key Facts

Stereotypic behaviours develop when horses cannot perform natural behaviours
Crib-biting involves biting a fixed surface and gulping air, which can cause digestive problems
Once established, stereotypic behaviours are extremely difficult to eliminate
Stabling horses for over 16 hours per day is a primary risk factor
Horses with stereotypies should not be prevented from performing them without addressing the cause

Welfare Considerations

Stereotypic behaviours are symptoms of chronic welfare compromise, not causes. Preventing performance without addressing the underlying need deprivation causes additional suffering. Welfare improvement requires increased turnout, appropriate social contact with other horses, maximising forage feeding time, and environmental enrichment. Anti-weaving grilles and anti-cribbing collars address symptoms rather than welfare needs.

What You Can Do

Maximise turnout time for stabled horses
Provide social contact with other horses whenever possible
Feed hay or haylage to extend natural foraging time
Seek advice from an equine behaviourist if stereotypic behaviours develop
Avoid purchasing anti-cribbing devices without addressing underlying needs