An overview of causal factors and management of stereotypies in sport horses

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

B.Sc. Student of Animal Science, Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran

Abstract

In recent times, sport horses faced limitations in their choice of ration, social interactions, and mobility, which could predispose them to stress. There are mechanisms which could assist such horses to cope when facing such challenges, resulting in them performing repetitive behaviours, known as stereotypies. These stereotypies are considered as a threat to horse’s welfare. Stereotypic behaviors have been first observed during the weaning period, and it seems that weaning stress is effective in its occurrence. There are other contributing factors, which could result in this behavioural problem such as lack of fibre, forage scarcity, boredom, social isolation and limited workout. In order to prevent such behaviours, there are a number of physical and pharmaceutical intervention methods available; however, the majority of these methods by suppressing the natural stress modulatory mechanisms, could cause further distress and do not help to eliminate the cause of stereotypic behaviors. Therefore, it appears that improving husbandry practice by controlling and reducing stressful factors, is more efficient and less costly. 

Keywords

References

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