Companion Animals

Horse Stereotypy Prevention and Management

Stereotypies in horses such as weaving, crib-biting, and wind-sucking reflect inadequate management and cause long-term welfare compromise.

Key Facts

Stereotypies affect an estimated 5-15% of stabled horses
They develop in response to feeding management, housing, and social deprivation
Once established, stereotypies cannot be fully eliminated and are lifelong
Crib-biting and wind-sucking are associated with gastric ulcers and dental abnormalities
Prevention is far more effective than treatment, requiring management reform from the outset

Welfare Considerations

Horse stereotypies signal chronic welfare compromise in management systems. Prevention through turnout, social contact, and high-fibre feeding is the most effective approach and avoids lifelong welfare burden.

What You Can Do

Maximise turnout and social contact to prevent stereotypy development
Feed ad libitum forage to satisfy the natural urge to chew and graze
Never use collar or anti-weaving devices that prevent behaviour without addressing causes
If a horse develops a stereotypy, review management before seeking to suppress the behaviour
Support research into stereotypy prevention and management in equine welfare science