Crib biting and wind sucking in horses are repetitive oral stereotypies associated with stress and suboptimal management, with complex welfare implications.
Stereotypies were historically viewed as vices requiring punishment, but modern welfare science recognises them as indicators of compromised wellbeing. Horses that crib bite may be coping with boredom, social isolation, or dietary restriction. Anti-cribbing collars prevent the behaviour but do not address underlying welfare causes and increase frustration. The priority is prevention through social contact, ad libitum forage, and turnout rather than suppression.