Researchers still aren’t sure why some horses crib while others managed the same way do not. Most agree that horses do not adopt this behavior by mimicking others. The current thinking is that an individual horse might have a genetic predisposition to crib, but the behavior isn’t triggered until he is subjected to stressors related to his lifestyle, shares Heather Smith-Thomas.
We think horses start cribbing as a coping mechanism . . . management remedies for horses who crib are generally fairly simple and familiar. Just try to let them be horses. More turnout time and more social contact may help relieve some of the environmental stress.” – Carissa Wickens, PhD
Source: EQUUS, July 15, 2023. Link.
INSIGHTS: Thomas’ article is a deep dive into cribbing, increased risk of colic, old practices, potential genetic factors and new practices for this common horse behavior. Consider the article for newsletters, horse group encounters and social media posts.