Stereotypic Behaviours in Horses

Stereotypies in horses including crib-biting and weaving indicate chronic frustration and inadequate environmental conditions.

Key Facts

10-15% of domesticated horses develop stereotypic behaviours
Crib-biting involves grasping a fixed object and swallowing air
Weaving involves repetitive side-to-side swinging of the head and neck
Stereotypies develop in response to housing frustrations and cannot be unlearned
Stabling horses for more than 8 hours daily significantly increases stereotypy risk

Welfare Considerations

Stereotypies in horses are permanent indicators that the animal has experienced chronic frustration during development. Once established, they cannot be eliminated though they can be reduced in frequency. They develop because horses are highly motivated to move, socialise, and forage continuously, but stabling, restricted turnout, and limited roughage frustrate these fundamental drives. Prevention through appropriate management is far more effective than attempting treatment.

What You Can Do

Provide horses with as much turnout time as possible, ideally 24-hour access
Ensure horses have constant access to high-fibre forage to satisfy grazing motivation
Provide companionship — horses are social animals and isolation causes distress
Avoid anti-weaving grills which prevent expression without addressing the cause
Never purchase or breed horses specifically for appearance traits that limit exercise capacity