This horse is cribbing, also known as wind sucking. It is a vice that, once learned, is virtually impossible to stop. It usually develops as a result of boredom or frustration, but it can also be learned from other horses. It is quite common in horses that stand in stalls or small paddocks for extended periods of time. It is thought that the locking of the jaw releases endorphins that can cause a sensation of pleasure.
Cribbing can lead to colic or digestive upset caused by an excessive amount of air in the digestive tract. In general cribbers are difficult to keep weight on, either because they would rather crib than eat or don't eat due to digestive disturbances. Cribbing can also cause the front edge of the incisors to wear unnaturally.
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| One type of cribbing collar |
The only real "cure" for cribbing is the use of the "cribbing collar". It is a strap that is placed on the neck just under the jaw that prevents the horses from locking it's jaw. Cribbing can also be reduced by giving the horse more turnout and having pasture or hay available at all times to prevent boredom.
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