Unraveling the Mystery of Cribbing Horses: Understanding, Causes, and Solutions
- Dr. Saba Afzal DVM
- Dec 27, 2021
- 18 min read
Updated: 15 hours ago
In the world of equestrian care and horsemanship, cribbing is a topic that has intrigued and concerned horse owners for generations. It's a behavior that can leave even the most experienced of handlers scratching their heads, wondering why their beloved equine companions engage in it. Cribbing, also known as crib-biting or wind-sucking, is a repetitive and often compulsive behavior exhibited by some horses. It involves the horse grasping a fixed object, such as a stall door or fence post, with its incisors and arching its neck while making a distinct grunting or gulping sound. It's a habit that's not only perplexing but can also lead to various health and management challenges.
In this blog, we will delve into the world of cribbing horses, aiming to demystify this behavior, understand its underlying causes, and explore effective solutions for both prevention and management. Whether you're a seasoned equestrian or a newcomer to the world of horses, we'll equip you with the knowledge and insights you need to make informed decisions about cribbing and your horse's well-being.
Defining Cribbing: Unraveling the Enigma
Cribbing, also known as crib-biting or wind-sucking, is a perplexing equine behavior that has intrigued horse owners, veterinarians, and researchers for centuries. It is characterized by a horse grasping a fixed object, typically a stall door, fence post, or any available horizontal surface, with its incisors. While doing so, the horse arches its neck and exhibits a distinctive, repetitive motion accompanied by a grunting or gulping sound.
This behavior can leave horse owners baffled and concerned, as it often appears compulsive and is known to be associated with certain health issues and management challenges. Let's break down the key elements of cribbing to gain a deeper understanding:
The Grasping of Objects: At the core of cribbing is the act of a horse grabbing onto a solid object using its front teeth. The choice of object may vary, but it's typically a surface that allows the horse to apply pressure and suck in air.
Arching the Neck: Cribbing horses exhibit a characteristic neck arching or extension during the behavior. The horse stretches its neck while holding onto the object, creating a distinctive posture.
Vocalizations: Another hallmark of cribbing is the production of grunting or gulping sounds. These noises accompany the behavior and are part of what makes it so unique and easily identifiable.
It's important to note that cribbing is more than just a quirky habit; it's a complex and multifaceted behavior. Horses that engage in cribbing often do so repeatedly throughout the day, and this compulsion can be challenging to curb.
Cribbing differs from other stereotypic behaviors, such as weaving (swaying side to side) or head bobbing, in its distinct combination of elements—grasping, neck arching, and vocalization. Unlike other behaviors, cribbing can also be associated with negative consequences for the horse's health and well-being.
Understanding cribbing is the first step in addressing this behavior and its potential impact on your horse. In the following sections, we will explore the causes behind cribbing, its implications for equine health, and various strategies for managing and preventing this enigmatic behavior.
Cribbing vs. Wind-Sucking: Unraveling the Distinctions
Cribbing and wind-sucking are two closely related equine behaviors, often used interchangeably, but they exhibit subtle differences that set them apart.
Cribbing: As described earlier, cribbing involves a horse grasping a fixed object with its incisors, arching its neck, and emitting distinctive grunting or gulping sounds. Cribbing horses use the act of grabbing and sucking in air to create a pleasurable sensation, which can become a compulsive habit. The term "cribbing" typically refers to this behavior, primarily characterized by the horse biting onto a stable surface.
Wind-Sucking: Wind-sucking, on the other hand, involves a horse arching its neck and swallowing air without necessarily grasping a fixed object. Wind-sucking horses don't necessarily need a surface to bite onto; they may perform this behavior freely in the air. It's akin to cribbing without the object-grasping component. The act of swallowing air is still the focus, and like cribbing, it can also become a compulsive habit.
While the fundamental principle of both cribbing and wind-sucking is the intake of air, these distinctions in behavior are important to recognize. The health and management concerns associated with these behaviors are often similar, as both can lead to dental issues, weight loss, and other health problems due to increased pressure on the esophagus and stomach.
In the subsequent sections, we will refer to these behaviors collectively as "cribbing" for simplicity, as the management and prevention techniques are generally similar. Understanding these nuances will enable you to better address these habits and their potential implications for your horse's well-being.
Exploring the Underlying Causes of Cribbing
Cribbing in horses is a complex behavior that can stem from a variety of factors, often interwoven and difficult to isolate. Understanding these underlying causes is crucial for developing effective strategies to manage or prevent cribbing in your equine companion. Here, we'll delve into some of the primary factors associated with cribbing.
Genetics
One of the most debated and intriguing aspects of cribbing is its genetic component. Research has suggested that some horses may have a genetic predisposition to cribbing. If a horse has a parent or close relative that cribs, it might be more likely to develop the habit.
This behavior is common in some horse breeds like Thoroughbreds. These vices are also important while overall scoring the horses. The behaviors are also transferred to the progeny or offspring. Cribbing has a 0.6 factor, according to the specialists of Genetic Breeding. However, genetics alone do not tell the whole story, and environmental factors play a significant role as well.
Nutritional Deficiency
Nutritional imbalances, particularly deficiencies in certain minerals like magnesium, have been linked to cribbing behavior. Ensuring that your horse receives a well-balanced diet is essential. Consulting with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist can help address any nutritional concerns that may contribute to cribbing.
Strangely, those horses that are fed more grains have more chances of cribbing. Horses licking fences and other materials is also a sign of nutritional deficiency. Cribbers are more prone to lick fence rather than eating feed and even sugary substances like molasses that result in nutritional deficiency.
Stress and Boredom
Horses are sensitive creatures, and stress or boredom can lead to cribbing. Horses that experience long periods of confinement, lack of social interaction, or insufficient mental and physical stimulation are more prone to develop cribbing habits as a coping mechanism. Providing a stimulating and enriching environment can be crucial in addressing these factors.
Any bad/unwanted behavior (stall kicking, weaving, cribbing) is also a sign of nervousness and stress. This stress can be due to high or low temperature, some pain like colic, worm infestation, deficiency of nutrients, etc. So, we must rule out the stress.
Colic and Gastrointestinal Discomfort
Some experts believe that cribbing may provide relief from gastrointestinal discomfort, such as colic. Horses with recurring digestive issues may turn to cribbing as a way to alleviate pain or discomfort. Managing the horse's digestive health through proper feeding, hydration, and regular veterinary care can be essential in reducing the risk of cribbing.
Social Isolation
Horses are naturally social animals, and isolation from equine companions can lead to stress and boredom, which may, in turn, trigger cribbing. Ensuring that horses have the opportunity to interact with their herd mates or providing companionship through other animals, such as goats, can help reduce this risk.
It is also a myth that these vices transfer from horses to others. Some people believe that horses can learn cribbing from cribbers, but studies do not show that.
Weaning and Early Life Stress
Cribbing sometimes begins during the weaning process or early in a horse's life, often due to the stress of separation from their dam or other significant life changes. Careful management and consideration of the weaning process can help mitigate this stress.
Environmental Factors
The horse's living conditions and management practices also play a role in cribbing. A lack of turnout time, inadequate ventilation in stables, and monotonous environments can contribute to the development of cribbing habits.
Understanding the complex interplay of these factors is essential for managing and, in some cases, preventing cribbing in horses. In the following sections, we will explore strategies and techniques to address each of these potential causes, helping you provide the best care and support for your equine friend.
The Health Implications of Cribbing: Beyond the Surface
Cribbing, with its repetitive and seemingly harmless appearance, can have significant and far-reaching health implications for horses. While the behavior itself may seem relatively benign, the consistent act of biting, arching the neck, and gulping air can lead to a range of physical and dental issues. Here's a closer look at the health implications associated with cribbing:
Dental Problems: The constant biting and pulling against surfaces can lead to abnormal wear and tear on a horse's incisors and molars. Over time, this can result in uneven dental surfaces, sharp points, and even fractured teeth. Dental issues not only cause discomfort for the horse but can also hinder their ability to properly chew and digest food.
Weight Loss and Poor Body Condition: Cribbing can be a time-consuming habit, leading to a reduction in the time a horse spends eating or grazing. This, coupled with dental problems, can result in decreased food intake and inadequate nutrient absorption, ultimately leading to weight loss and poor body condition.
Gastrointestinal Problems: The excessive gulping of air during cribbing can introduce additional air into the horse's stomach. This increased air can lead to digestive discomfort and may contribute to conditions like colic or gastric ulcers. Gastrointestinal issues can become a serious health concern and may require veterinary intervention.
Respiratory Problems: Cribbing can also be associated with an increased risk of respiratory issues. The act of gulping air may introduce dust and debris into the horse's respiratory system, potentially leading to conditions like airway inflammation or coughing.
Muscular and Skeletal Concerns: The constant neck arching and pressure exerted on the cervical muscles can lead to musculoskeletal problems. This can result in stiff or sore neck muscles, which may affect the horse's overall comfort and movement.
Psychological Stress: While not a direct physical health concern, cribbing often indicates psychological stress in horses. Addressing this underlying stress is vital for the horse's well-being and may require a multifaceted approach, including environmental enrichment and socialization.
Understanding the potential health implications of cribbing is essential for horse owners and caregivers. It highlights the importance of early intervention and management strategies to minimize the negative effects of this behavior. In the following sections, we will explore various techniques and approaches for managing and preventing cribbing, with the ultimate goal of safeguarding your horse's health and ensuring their overall well-being.
Psychology and Hormone Regulation of Cribbers: Understanding the Reward System
Cribbing is not just a mechanical habit; it has a deep psychological component that influences the behavior of your equine companion. Understanding this psychological dimension is key to effectively managing and preventing cribbing in horses.
Leptin Hormone and the Reward System
One of the critical factors at play in cribbing is the hormone leptin. Leptin is involved in regulating appetite and energy expenditure in horses, as well as in other mammals. However, it also plays a significant role in the reward system within the horse's brain. This is where the connection between cribbing and leptin becomes apparent.
Reward and Dopamine Release
When a horse cribs, there is a release of dopamine in the brain, which is a neurotransmitter associated with feelings of pleasure and reward. In essence, cribbing becomes a rewarding activity for the horse, creating a cycle that makes it progressively harder to eliminate the behavior.
Early Intervention is Key
The association between cribbing, leptin, and the release of dopamine highlights the importance of early intervention. If a horse is allowed to crib without intervention, the habit can become deeply ingrained. The more the horse engages in cribbing, the stronger the connection between the behavior and the pleasurable release of dopamine becomes. This makes breaking the habit in the later stages a challenging endeavor.
Observation and Prevention
To effectively manage cribbing, it's crucial to observe your horse carefully and understand the early signs. Look for patterns and triggers that may prompt cribbing behavior, such as stress or boredom. By identifying these factors, you can take steps to prevent or redirect the behavior before it becomes a compulsive habit.
Preventing Cribbing
The ultimate goal is to prevent cribbing from becoming a deeply ingrained habit in the first place. Environmental enrichment, social interaction, and consistent feeding and exercise routines can help reduce the likelihood of a horse turning to cribbing for psychological relief.
In summary, understanding the psychology of cribbing and the role of hormones like leptin sheds light on the complex nature of this behavior. It underscores the importance of early intervention and prevention strategies. By being vigilant, proactive, and attentive to your horse's needs, you can significantly reduce the risk of cribbing and provide a happier and healthier life for your equine friend.
Management Techniques for Cribbing Horses: Finding Balance and Solutions
Managing cribbing in horses can be a challenging but necessary endeavor to protect your equine companion's well-being. While there's no one-size-fits-all solution, a combination of approaches tailored to your horse's unique needs and circumstances can significantly reduce or even eliminate cribbing behaviors. Here are some management techniques and strategies to consider:
Environmental Modifications
A horse's living environment plays a crucial role in managing cribbing. Consider making the following adjustments:
Increased Turnout: Provide ample turnout time in a pasture or paddock, allowing your horse to graze and interact with other horses, which can reduce boredom and stress.
Stable Design: Ensure the stable is well-ventilated and offers plenty of natural light. This can create a more pleasant and stimulating living space.
Safe Surfaces: Cover potential cribbing surfaces (like stall doors and fence posts) with materials that make it less satisfying for your horse to grip, such as specially designed coverings.
Social Interaction
Horses are social animals, and social isolation can contribute to cribbing. Ensure your horse has the opportunity to interact with other horses or animals. If companionship with other horses isn't possible, consider providing a goat or other suitable companion.
Nutrition and Feeding
A well-balanced diet is crucial in managing cribbing. Consider the following:
Frequent Feeding: Offer smaller, more frequent meals to discourage boredom and mimic the natural grazing behavior.
Mineral Supplements: Consult with an equine nutritionist to ensure your horse receives the right mineral balance, especially magnesium, which may help reduce cribbing tendencies.
Stable Toys: Offer toys or feeders that encourage mental stimulation and slow down food consumption, keeping your horse occupied.
Anti-Cribbing Devices
Various anti-cribbing devices are available, such as cribbing collars or straps that limit neck extension. These devices can be effective in preventing cribbing; however, they should be used under the guidance of a veterinarian or equine behavior specialist.
Medication and Supplements
Consult with your veterinarian about medications or supplements that may help manage cribbing, especially if it is associated with anxiety or stress. Certain medications may help reduce these underlying triggers.
Behavioral Modification
Behavioral modification techniques, such as positive reinforcement training, can be used to redirect your horse's focus and reward them for non-cribbing behaviors. This approach requires patience and consistency.
Exercise
The best way to channelize your horse's energy is through exercise and various activities. You can introduce jolly balls or other play items in the stall or pasture. These help stimulate their brains and encourage curiosity and play.
Hire an exercise rider if you do not have time to regularly ride your horse. Giving your horse a job is a great way to keep them from starting habits. Most horses enjoy horse and rider time!
Limiting stall time is also a great way to keep a horse healthy and happy. More time in the pasture allows a horse to be himself and graze naturally. Having a couple horse buddies in the same pasture can encourage a herd like mentality.
Deworming and Parasite Management
Intestinal worms can contribute to cribbing behavior. To prevent this, it's crucial to adhere to a regular deworming regimen. Consult your veterinarian to determine the appropriate dewormers and timing based on your horse's specific needs.
If you're unsure about the types of worms affecting your horse, your veterinarian can perform a stool sample evaluation. This analysis helps identify the specific parasites present, allowing for a more targeted deworming approach. Contact your vet for guidance on the frequency and selection of deworming products tailored to your horse's requirements.
Professional Assistance
In cases where cribbing persists or is severe, consider seeking the assistance of an equine behaviorist or veterinarian with expertise in equine behavior. They can provide a tailored management plan and, if necessary, further diagnostic tests.
It's important to recognize that managing cribbing is an ongoing process, and what works for one horse may not work for another. Be patient and flexible in your approach, and monitor your horse's progress. Remember that the goal is not only to reduce the cribbing behavior but also to address any underlying issues that may be contributing to it, such as stress or boredom.
By combining these management techniques and working closely with equine professionals, you can provide the best care and support for your cribbing horse, ultimately improving their quality of life and overall well-being.
Alternative Therapies for Cribbing Horses: Exploring Holistic Approaches
In addition to traditional management strategies, alternative therapies have gained recognition as potential tools for addressing cribbing behavior in horses. These holistic approaches focus on the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of your equine companion, offering a more comprehensive approach to manage and reduce cribbing. Here are some alternative therapies to consider:
Acupressure
Acupressure Acupressure is a gentle, non-invasive therapy rooted in the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It involves applying steady, focused pressure to specific locations on the horse’s body known as acupoints. These points lie along energetic pathways called meridians, which correspond to internal organs and systems. When stimulated, acupoints are thought to influence the flow of Qi—the vital life energy that supports physical and emotional well-being.
For horses that exhibit stereotypic behaviors like cribbing, acupressure offers a holistic approach to support their emotional balance and physical health. Cribbing, which often arises from chronic stress, boredom, digestive discomfort, or nervous system imbalance, may be a sign that the horse is struggling to self-regulate. While the behavior itself can become habitual over time, it’s often rooted in deeper imbalances—both emotional and energetic.
By working with acupoints that calm the mind, support the digestive system, and release tension from the nervous system, acupressure may help reduce the internal stress that contributes to cribbing. For example, points such as GV20 (Bai Hui)—located at the top of the hindquarters—can help quiet the mind and ease anxiety, while Stomach 36 and Conception Vessel 12 are frequently used to support healthy digestion and reduce gastrointestinal discomfort, which can be underlying factors in cribbing behavior.
What makes acupressure especially appealing is its calming, hands-on nature. Many horses respond positively to these sessions, visibly relaxing—lowering their head, licking and chewing, or even softly yawning—as tension begins to release. Unlike invasive treatments or restrictive devices, acupressure works with the horse’s body and innate intelligence, encouraging healing from within.
While acupressure is not a "quick fix" and won't necessarily eliminate cribbing entirely, it can be a powerful part of a broader management plan—especially when combined with changes in environment, diet, turnout time, and enrichment. For horse owners seeking compassionate, preventative, and complementary care, acupressure provides a thoughtful way to reconnect with the horse’s natural rhythms and reduce the emotional triggers that may drive unwanted behaviors.
If you're interested in learning more about acupressure and how to apply it to support your own animals, be sure to check out our online course. Designed for both beginners and those looking to deepen their understanding, this course walks you through the foundations of acupressure, key points, and practical techniques you can start using right away. It’s a great way to confidently support your animal’s well-being from the comfort of home. Sign up today and start your journey into holistic animal care!
Chiropractic Care
Equine Chiropractic care focuses on the alignment and function of the horse’s spine and musculoskeletal system. Misalignments—also known as subluxations—can interfere with nerve signals, restrict movement, and cause discomfort or tension that may lead to compensatory behaviors, such as cribbing. By performing gentle, targeted adjustments, a qualified equine chiropractor can help restore normal joint function, improve posture, and relieve physical stress. For horses that crib, reducing musculoskeletal discomfort—especially in the poll, neck, withers, or jaw—may ease some of the underlying tension contributing to the behavior. Regular chiropractic sessions can also enhance overall mobility, circulation, and nervous system function, supporting the horse's general wellness and emotional balance.
Herbal Supplements
Herbal supplements, Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to support the nervous system and promote calm in both people and animals. In horses prone to cribbing—often linked to stress, anxiety, or excitability—certain calming herbs can serve as a gentle way to support relaxation and emotional regulation. Common options include chamomile, known for its soothing effects, and valerian root, which has mild sedative properties. Other herbs like passionflower, lemon balm, or skullcapmay also help reduce anxiety levels. However, herbal supplementation should never be approached casually. Each horse is unique, and some herbs may interact with medications or be contraindicated in certain health conditions. That’s why it’s essential to consult with an equine veterinarian or certified herbalist who understands how to select the appropriate herb, formulation, and dosage for your individual horse’s needs.
Homeopathy
Homeopathy is a holistic modality that works on the principle of "like cures like," using highly diluted natural substances to stimulate the body’s innate healing response. In equine care, homeopathy is often used to support physical and behavioral concerns, including stress-related issues like cribbing. Remedies are selected based not just on the behavior itself, but on the horse’s overall temperament, history, and specific symptoms. For example, a high-strung, reactive cribber may benefit from a different remedy than a withdrawn, habitually stressed horse. Homeopathy is gentle and non-invasive, making it a suitable option for sensitive or hard-to-reach horses. Because remedy selection is highly individualized, working with a qualified equine homeopath is recommended to ensure accuracy and effectiveness.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy, the therapeutic use of essential oils, can be a gentle yet effective tool for promoting emotional balance in horses—especially those who engage in stress-related behaviors such as cribbing. Horses have a highly developed sense of smell, making them particularly responsive to olfactory stimuli. When carefully chosen and properly introduced, certain essential oils may help calm the nervous system, reduce anxiety, and create a more serene environment.
Scents like lavender, chamomile, frankincense, and sweet marjoram are commonly used in equine aromatherapy for their calming and grounding properties. These oils can be diffused in the horse’s environment, applied (properly diluted) to a cloth placed near the stall, or introduced through scent wafting sessions that allow the horse to explore the aroma voluntarily. Importantly, horses should always be given a choice to engage with the scent—consent is key in aromatherapy.
By reducing generalized stress or restlessness, aromatherapy can support a more relaxed state of mind, potentially lessening the frequency or intensity of cribbing episodes. However, not all oils are safe for equines, and incorrect use can be harmful. Consulting with an equine aromatherapist or holistic practitioner ensures that oils are chosen and administered safely and effectively.
Equine Massage
Equine massage therapy is a hands-on technique designed to release muscular tension, increase circulation, and support overall well-being in horses. For cribbing horses, especially those whose behavior may stem from physical discomfort, massage can offer significant benefits. Repetitive cribbing actions often create tightness and muscular imbalances in the neck, poll, shoulders, and chest. Over time, this tension can become chronic, contributing to discomfort that may reinforce the behavior.
A professional equine massage therapist can assess your horse’s body for areas of restriction, discomfort, or compensatory patterns. Techniques such as myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and deep tissue massage may be used to relax overworked muscles and promote a greater sense of comfort. In addition to physical relief, massage also has a profound calming effect on the nervous system—helping high-strung or anxious horses settle both physically and emotionally.
Regular massage sessions can complement other therapies like chiropractic adjustments, red light therapy, and acupressure, forming part of a holistic strategy to address both the physical strain and emotional stress often associated with cribbing. Just like with people, a relaxed, pain-free body supports a more balanced and resilient mindset in horses.
Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation, is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to stimulate cellular function and encourage the body’s natural healing processes. These wavelengths penetrate the skin and soft tissues, reaching cells and mitochondria to support ATP (energy) production, reduce inflammation, and accelerate tissue repair.
In horses, red light therapy has shown promise in reducing muscular tension, improving circulation, and calming the nervous system—all of which can be relevant for managing stress-related behaviors like cribbing. Horses who crib may carry excess tension in areas such as the neck, poll, jaw, and shoulders, either as a cause or result of the repetitive motion involved in the behavior. Applying red light to these tension-prone areas may help soften tight muscles, encourage relaxation, and promote a greater sense of physical and emotional ease.
Some horse owners and equine wellness practitioners have observed that regular red light sessions, especially when targeted around areas of strain or stress, contribute to improved demeanor and reduced cribbing frequency. When used in conjunction with other therapies like acupressure, chiropractic care, or calming supplements, red light therapy can serve as a supportive piece of a broader, integrative wellness plan.
Holistic Integration
Before incorporating any alternative therapy into your cribbing management strategy, it’s crucial to consult with a qualified practitioner or therapist experienced in equine anatomy and behavior. A thorough evaluation of your horse’s posture, movement, and environment—as well as emotional and physical triggers—can help identify which therapies are most suitable. Not every horse responds the same way, so a personalized approach is key.
By blending conventional management (such as environmental enrichment, dietary adjustments, and veterinary oversight) with complementary therapies like red light, acupressure, herbal support, and chiropractic care, you create a more holistic path toward reducing cribbing behavior. The goal isn't just to suppress the symptom, but to address the root causes—whether physical, emotional, or environmental—and promote your horse’s overall comfort and well-being.
Conclusion: Empowering Your Journey Towards Cribbing Management
Cribbing is a complex behavior that demands our attention, understanding, and patience as responsible horse owners. It's not merely a mechanical act but a manifestation of various physical, emotional, and psychological factors that influence our equine companions. In this blog, we've explored the intricacies of cribbing, from its definition and causes to the potential health implications and a myriad of management and prevention strategies.
Cribbing is not an insurmountable challenge; it's an opportunity to enrich your bond with your horse and provide them with the best possible care. By incorporating a combination of environmental modifications, regular deworming, and alternative therapies, you can address the root causes of cribbing and foster a more balanced and fulfilling life for your horse.
It's vital to remember that every horse is unique, and the path to managing cribbing may require adaptation and personalization. Seek the guidance of equine professionals, stay vigilant in your observations, and never underestimate the power of a supportive community of fellow horse enthusiasts.
As you embark on your journey to address cribbing in your horse, approach it with empathy, dedication, and the knowledge that with the right strategies, you can help your beloved equine companion live a cribbing-free, content, and thriving life. Together, you and your horse can conquer the challenges of cribbing and enjoy the rewards of a healthier, happier partnership.
