Behavioral Problems in Horses–Part I

Behavioral Problems
in Horses–Part I

This is the first of a multi-part series outlining common equine
behavior problems

Horses are highly social animals that require contact with others
for normal daily care and well-being. Many behavioral problems are associated
with confinement and/or isolation. The main goal of managing these problems is
identification followed by correction.

Aggression

Aggression is a
common problem in horses and includes kicking and biting, chasing, neck
wrestling, etc.  Signs of aggression
include ears flattened backward, retracted lips, rapid tail movements, pawing,
head bowing, snorting, squealing, levade (rearing with deeply flexed
hindquarters), and threats to kick. Submissive horses respond with avoidance,
lowering the neck and head, clamping the tail, and turning away from the
aggressor.

Aggression Toward People

Generally, this behavior is seen in stalls or small spaces that
the horse feels can be easily defended. The varieties of aggression toward
people include fear, pain-induced, sexual (hormonal), learned, and dominance
related. Some horses, especially young ones, play with each other while showing
signs of aggression such as kicking and biting. Although harmless to other
horses, this “play” can prove dangerous to people.

As stated earlier, the first step in managing equine aggression is
to identify the cause and,  if possible, to
remove it. Training and positive reinforcement, combined with desensitization
and counter-conditioning are an excellent means to a positive end for a large
number of horses.  Environmental
management is important as well; good management should include sufficient resources
such as space, food, and water.

Aggression Toward
Other Horses

 Aggression toward
other horses is often associated with sexual competition, fear, dominance, or
territory (protecting the group and resources). There are some horses that are
pathologically aggressive; these should be separated completely from other
horses (and humans). First separation, followed by keeping less dominant or
subordinate equines away from dominant horses. 
Horses should have sufficient resources, and desensitization and counter-conditioning
is the best treatment approach. In cases of sexually related aggression,
castration and progestins can help. Adverse effects of such treatment should be
weighed carefully, and the horse should be monitored closely. Punishment should
be avoided.

Maternal Aggression

Aggression by mares toward people is normal during the first few
days after giving birth (parturition). This behavior is hormonally driven and
usually lessens with time. Mares should be familiarized with their caregivers before
delivery and have minimal contact with other people after delivery. No
treatment is required in most cases.

Aggression While
Breeding

Stallions that are aggressive when used for breeding are often
overused or used out of season. Stallions can develop preferences and a simple
change of the mare may help.  If
stallions were stabled with mares when they were colts, they may have some
social inhibitions,  and forced mating
can result in aggression. The goal of treatment is to treat the main cause of
aggression; changing the mare (because of preferences) or artificial breeding
can also be attempted. Physical restraint and desensitization can help as well.
Clicker training has been used successfully to desensitize stallions with this
problem.

Look for Part II:  Abnormal Behaviors coming soon

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