What Is Crib Biting?

Stereotypies are repetitive, unwavering behaviours that cease to obtain a goal and lack function. One of the most common stereotypies in horses is equine oral stereotypic behaviour, otherwise known as cribbing, wind sucking or crib-biting.

Is crib biting bad for horses?

Windsucking involves the horse swallowing air, usually without grabbing anything with his teeth. The horse or pony swallows air by closing the mouth, firmly arching the neck and forcing the air down the oesophagus. ... Even worse, cases of windsucking and crib-biting show that horses will lose condition.

Why is crib biting bad?

So why is it a bad thing? Horses that crib bite (where they grasp an object with their front teeth, contracting neck muscles, drawing in air and grunting) or wind suck (same action without grasping something physical) can harm their own health, leading to bad teeth and weight loss.