Understanding Wind Sucking and Crib Biting in Horses

Wind sucking and crib biting are two of the most recognised stereotypic behaviours in horses. Often called “stable vices,” these habits are not simply bad behaviour, they are complex coping mechanisms that develop in response to stress, discomfort, or environmental restriction.

Though the two are closely related, they are not the same. Crib biting involves the horse gripping a solid object, while wind sucking occurs without using an object. Both can have physical and management implications for the horse and often indicate an underlying welfare concern.

This article explores the causes, effects, and management of these behaviours to help horse owners better understand and care for affected horses.

What Are Wind Sucking and Crib Biting?

Wind Sucking

Wind sucking occurs when a horse arches its neck, flexes its throat muscles, and draws air into the oesophagus, creating a characteristic grunting sound. Unlike crib biting, wind sucking happens without the horse grasping onto any object.

Crib Biting

Crib biting, sometimes called cribbing, is when a horse grips a solid object, such as a stable door, fence rail, or manger, with its incisors, pulls back, and simultaneously sucks in air. This action also produces a grunting or burping noise.

Both behaviours fall under the category of stereotypies, repetitive, compulsive actions that serve no direct purpose but may provide psychological comfort. Once established, they can be difficult to stop, as the act of wind sucking or crib biting triggers the release of endorphins, creating a calming or rewarding effect for the horse.

Why Horses Develop These Behaviours

Research shows that wind sucking and crib biting usually develop as a response to environmental or physiological stressors. They are rarely the result of boredom alone and often have multiple contributing factors.

Common Causes

Gastric Discomfort and Ulcers

Horses with gastric ulcers or chronic stomach irritation often begin wind sucking or crib biting to relieve discomfort. Swallowing air temporarily neutralises stomach acid, providing a sense of relief.

Diet and Feeding Practices

Feeding routines that limit forage and rely heavily on concentrated feeds increase the risk. Horses evolved to graze continuously, and long periods without forage cause excess stomach acid and stress.

Confinement and Boredom

Horses kept in stables for long periods with little turnout or stimulation are more likely to develop stereotypic behaviours. Lack of movement and social contact increases stress and frustration.

Stress and Anxiety

Frequent changes in routine, social isolation, transport, and competition can trigger anxiety. Wind sucking and crib biting often emerge as self-soothing behaviours in response.

Learned Behaviour and Genetics

Some horses learn the behaviour by observing others, while studies suggest a possible genetic predisposition in certain bloodlines. Thoroughbreds, for example, appear more susceptible.

Health and Management Implications

While the behaviours themselves may not always be harmful, they can lead to complications over time:

• Dental damage – from gripping hard surfaces
• Weight loss and poor body condition – due to time spent cribbing instead of eating
• Colic risk – though research is mixed, some evidence links air swallowing to gas buildup
• Stable or fence damage – caused by repetitive biting of surfaces
• Lower resale value – due to cosmetic or behavioural stigma

Recognising the Signs

Typical signs of wind sucking and crib biting include:

• A repeated grunting or burping noise
• The horse arching its neck and flexing the throat
• Biting or leaning on stable doors, fence rails, or mangers
• Visible wear marks on wooden or metal surfaces
• Air swallowing even without biting
• Possible weight loss or dull coat condition

Veterinary Assessment

A veterinary assessment is essential to rule out underlying health problems, particularly gastric ulcers or digestive discomfort. The vet may perform:

• A gastroscopy to check for ulcers
• Dental examination to assess wear or pain
• Diet review to identify nutritional imbalances
• Evaluation of management practices, turnout, and stress factors

Treating any underlying medical condition is the first and most important step in addressing the behaviour.

Managing Wind Sucking and Crib Biting

Completely eliminating the behaviour is rarely possible once it becomes habitual, but good management can reduce its frequency and prevent further complications. The focus should be on improving welfare and addressing causes rather than suppressing symptoms.

1. Dietary Management

• Provide constant access to forage such as hay or pasture.
• Feed small, frequent meals rather than large, starchy ones.
• Reduce or eliminate concentrates and high-sugar feeds.
• Offer alfalfa before grain-based meals to buffer stomach acid.
• Ensure fresh water is always available.

2. Increase Turnout and Social Interaction

• Maximise turnout time to allow grazing and movement.
• Provide opportunities for social contact with other horses.
• Avoid long periods of confinement in a stable.

3. Environmental Enrichment

• Use treat balls, hay nets, or slow feeders to encourage natural foraging behaviour.
• Maintain a predictable daily routine to reduce stress.
• Allow horses visual and tactile contact with stable neighbours.

4. Medical Treatment

If ulcers are diagnosed, treatment with medications such as omeprazole can significantly reduce discomfort and may lessen the urge to wind suck. Horses with pain or discomfort from other conditions should receive appropriate veterinary care.

5. Physical Deterrents

Devices such as cribbing collars can prevent the neck motion required for wind sucking, but they should be used cautiously. These tools do not address the underlying cause and can increase stress if relied upon as the sole intervention. Environmental and dietary improvements are always preferable.

6. Stable Modifications

• Fit metal or rubber guards to protect stable doors and fences from wear.
• Ensure stables are well-ventilated and comfortable.
• Keep feeding areas smooth to minimise tooth damage.

Prevention

Preventing wind sucking and crib biting is far easier than managing them once they appear. The following practices can greatly reduce risk:

• Provide regular turnout and access to pasture.
• Ensure near-constant access to roughage.
• Maintain consistent routines and low-stress handling.
• Introduce dietary and environmental changes gradually.
• Avoid high-starch, low-fibre diets.
• Monitor young horses closely, as stereotypies often develop early in life.

Prognosis

Once established, wind sucking and crib biting tend to persist, though their intensity can be reduced. Horses can live long, healthy lives with proper management and understanding. Addressing the underlying causes, especially stress and gastric health, offers the best chance for improvement.

Conclusion

Wind sucking and crib biting are not merely bad habits but signs that a horse is struggling to cope with its environment or internal discomfort. Both behaviours are complex, driven by a mix of physiological and psychological factors.

By addressing the root causes, such as stress, confinement, or gastric ulcers, horse owners can dramatically improve their horse’s comfort and welfare. With patience, good management, and veterinary guidance, most horses can lead happy, healthy lives, even if the behaviour never completely disappears.