Crib-biting (also called wind-sucking) is a more common behavioral disorder displayed by horses living indoors (for the most part). Crib-biting is potentially dangerous to a horse's health, and it can be alarming for those observing the behavior for the first time.
Crib-biting involves a horse grabbing an object, such as a rail or fence, with its upper incisors and arching its neck to suck air into the throat while making a distinctive grunting sound. The behavior has no apparent purpose, but some possible reasons horses might crib bite include boredom, stress, digestive discomfort, lack of socialization, and lack of outdoor time.
Health Implications
Horses that show crib-biting behavior may also be at increased risk of:
- developing excessive neck muscle
- damage and wear to the upper teeth
- weight loss
- colic and other gastrointestinal problems.
- osteoarthritis of the hyoid bone (a small bone in the throat).
Lower levels of trace elements such as selenium, zinc, and others appear to be associated with this condition. However, there is no clear evidence of whether this is a causative factor or another stress indicator. There is some evidence that stress suffered due to complications listed above may contribute to lower antioxidant levels. Supplementation of these elements is protective to some degree.
Treatment
Crib biting is a complex problem to cure. Still, a logical approach should address the underlying causes that can lead to the condition, namely: stress and boredom.
Look for environmental clues
Stress and boredom are the two most likely risk factors associated with crib-biting. Interestingly, this is not a behaviour seen by wild horses. Providing environmental enrichment, such as toys or novel food treats for the horse in an otherwise under stimulating environment, helps to reduce boredom. Increased socialization with other horses can also prove helpful. Horses will benefit from changing routines, such as providing more or different experiences outside the stable, which can also help to improve the level of mental stimulation in the horse.
Check on their digestion
Crib biting can sometimes be associated with digestive discomfort. Our veterinarians can evaluate your horse's gut health and check dental health. Remember, the mouth is the start of the digestion system. Our findings may lead to recommendations to change the type or delivery of the horse's diet. Suppose you're feeding a diet that is relatively high in energy. In that case, reducing caloric intake and increasing stimulating exercise may also have a beneficial effect.
As this behavior is often a symptom or indicator of another problem, getting to the root of the issue is essential. Physical solutions such as metal barriers can cause increased tooth damage, and aversive solutions such as crib-biting collars and electric shock devices may appear to eliminate the behavior for a period. However, once an owner stops using such devices, the behavior may reappear worse than ever.
Early intervention and persistence are essential to finding and reducing the root causes of crib-biting.
Speak with one of our friendly veterinary team members for more information on safe, humane behaviour management techniques to help your horse break the biting habit! |