Stable Vices in Horses

As the horse has been domesticated over the years, their natural environment has been changed dramatically, which means that they now spend a lot of time in the stable and as a result develop abnormal behaviour, known as stable vices or “stereotypes”.

Weaving

Horses that weave will stand with his head over the stable door and will move side to side in a continuous rhythm. This vice is most commonly associated with stress and anxiety which can be because of separation issues, or an eagerness to get out of his stable.

It has been shown that horses that weave will reduce the frequency and need to weave when they have windows in their stable. Another good method of reducing weaving is to use a mirror in the stable as this gives the impression that he has company.  Horses usually stop weaving when turned out in the field.

Cribbing

Cribbing is most frequently seen in Thoroughbreds.  It is mostly associated with boredom and anxiety; however, there is little research as to why horses develop this behaviour. It is a myth that crib biting is contagious, as there is no proven research to show this.

Cribbing can cause damage to the horses teeth, and most importantly, his stomach. Most horses that crib will have stomach ulcers of varying degrees of severity which can lead to colic. This is why a horse who cribs bites should be closely monitored and fed plenty of forage.

Wind Sucking

Wind sucking is different from Cribbing. The horse sometimes does not require an edge to hold, he merely learns to gulp down air by creating a vacuum in his mouth. This vice is mainly due to boredom, however, can be reduced by feeding more roughage and a varied schedule.

Box Walking

A horse that box walks is a prime example of an anxious horse showing signs of his fight or flight response. Horses will always naturally want to take flight in times of stress, so you should ensure that he is happy in his stable and keep. Moving location of the stable on the yard may prove a success, as the horse may be happier in a quieter environment where he feels more settled. 

When a horse has established any stereotypical behaviour, it is incredibly difficult to stop or even manage which is why it is important to understand that even if the horse is removed from the original problem or stress, he may continue to carry out this behaviour. 

The best possible management of any stable vice is to give your horse a routine which will reduce anxiety and allow him to live as natural as possible. This includes a high fibre diet, and plenty of time out in the field.