5 Tips: Horse Licking Behavior Explained

Have you ever wondered why horses engage in licking behavior, and what it might mean? This intriguing behavior, often observed in horses, has long fascinated both equestrian enthusiasts and researchers alike. While it might seem like a simple act, horse licking behavior can reveal a wealth of information about their social dynamics, health, and even their emotional state. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the world of horse licking, offering expert insights and practical tips to help you better understand and interpret this unique equine behavior.

Understanding Horse Licking Behavior

Horse licking is a natural and common behavior exhibited by equines, and it serves various purposes. From a physiological perspective, licking helps horses keep their coats clean and healthy, removing dirt, loose hair, and even insects. However, the social and communicative aspects of licking are just as fascinating and often provide deeper insights into their complex social structure.

1. Social Bonding and Communication

One of the primary functions of horse licking is to strengthen social bonds and facilitate communication within the herd. Horses are highly social animals, and their intricate social hierarchy is maintained through various non-verbal cues, including licking. When a horse licks another, it’s often a sign of respect, affection, or even submission to a higher-ranking member of the herd.

For instance, a mare might lick her foal as a way of comforting and bonding with it, while a lower-ranking stallion might lick a dominant stallion's face as a sign of deference. This mutual grooming behavior, also known as allogrooming, plays a crucial role in maintaining peace and harmony within the herd.

2. Stress Relief and Comfort

Licking can also be a self-soothing behavior for horses. Just as humans might bite their nails or twirl their hair when feeling anxious, horses might engage in licking as a way to relieve stress or comfort themselves. This behavior is often observed in horses that are separated from their herd, experiencing new environments, or facing unfamiliar situations.

For example, a horse being trailered to a new location might start licking its lips or the bars of the trailer as a way to cope with the stress of the unfamiliar journey. Similarly, a horse being handled by a new groomer might lick its lips frequently, indicating a need for reassurance and comfort.

3. Exploring Taste and Texture

Horses have an innate curiosity, and their sense of taste plays a role in this. They often lick objects and surfaces to explore new tastes and textures. This behavior is particularly common in young horses or those that are being introduced to new environments or experiences.

For instance, a young horse might lick the walls of its stall, curious about the new scents and textures it encounters. Similarly, a horse being introduced to a new feed might first inspect and lick it before deciding whether to consume it.

4. Health and Hygiene

As mentioned earlier, licking is an essential part of a horse’s hygiene routine. Horses use their rough tongues to remove dirt, debris, and loose hair from their coats, ensuring they remain clean and healthy. This self-grooming behavior is especially important for horses that live in muddy or dusty environments.

Additionally, horses might lick their wounds as a natural way to clean and disinfect them. While this behavior is generally beneficial, it's important to monitor wound licking to ensure it doesn't become excessive or interfere with the healing process.

5. Recognizing Abnormal Licking Behavior

While licking is a normal and healthy behavior, excessive or abnormal licking can indicate underlying issues. For instance, a horse that engages in repetitive licking or chewing motions, known as cribbing or windsucking, might be suffering from stress, boredom, or even gastrointestinal discomfort.

Similarly, a horse that persistently licks its own or another horse's legs might be exhibiting a behavior known as "stable vices," which can be a sign of frustration, boredom, or even pain. These behaviors should be addressed by a veterinarian or equine behaviorist to ensure the horse's well-being.

Tips for Interpreting Horse Licking Behavior

Understanding horse licking behavior can greatly enhance your relationship with your equine companion and provide valuable insights into their overall health and happiness.

1. Observe Context and Body Language

When interpreting horse licking behavior, it’s crucial to consider the context in which it occurs. Is the horse licking in a social setting with other horses, or is it alone? Is it in a familiar or new environment? Understanding the context can help you determine whether the licking is a normal social behavior or a sign of stress or discomfort.

Additionally, pay attention to the horse's body language. Are its ears relaxed and forward, indicating a calm and content state? Or are they pinned back, suggesting potential aggression or discomfort? Observing the horse's overall demeanor can provide valuable clues about the meaning of its licking behavior.

2. Monitor Licking Frequency and Intensity

The frequency and intensity of licking can also provide insights into a horse’s well-being. While occasional licking is normal, excessive or repetitive licking might indicate an underlying issue. For instance, a horse that suddenly starts licking its stall walls or self-grooming excessively might be experiencing stress or pain.

Similarly, if a horse normally licks its lips or saliva frequently, but suddenly stops, it could be a sign of dental issues or discomfort. Monitoring these changes in licking behavior can help you identify potential health problems early on.

3. Consider Individual Horse Behavior

Every horse is unique, and their licking behavior can vary based on their personality and individual preferences. Some horses might be more affectionate and use licking as a way to show their love and respect, while others might be more reserved and only lick in specific social contexts.

By understanding your horse's individual behavior patterns, you can better interpret its licking cues. For instance, if your horse typically licks you as a sign of affection, but suddenly stops, it might be a sign that something is bothering it or that it's feeling unwell.

4. Address Abnormal Licking Behavior

If you notice abnormal or excessive licking behavior in your horse, it’s important to address it promptly. Consult with your veterinarian or an equine behaviorist to rule out any underlying health issues and develop a plan to manage the behavior.

In some cases, providing environmental enrichment, such as offering new toys or increasing turnout time, can help alleviate boredom-related licking behaviors. For more severe cases, behavior modification techniques or even medication might be necessary to manage the behavior effectively.

5. Encourage Healthy Licking Habits

While you want to address abnormal licking behaviors, it’s also important to encourage healthy licking habits. Provide your horse with opportunities to engage in natural grooming behaviors, such as providing a salt or mineral lick or offering a clean, dust-free environment for self-grooming.

Additionally, you can incorporate licking into your horse's training and handling routines. For instance, rewarding your horse with a lick of its favorite treat or offering it a chance to lick your hand during grooming sessions can help strengthen your bond and provide a positive association with licking behavior.

Conclusion

Horse licking behavior is a fascinating aspect of equine communication and behavior. By understanding the various functions and contexts of licking, you can better interpret your horse’s needs and emotions. Whether it’s a sign of affection, stress relief, or simple curiosity, licking provides valuable insights into the intricate world of horses.

Remember, every horse is unique, and their licking behavior will vary accordingly. By observing, interpreting, and addressing their licking cues, you can ensure your horse's physical and emotional well-being, strengthening your bond and enhancing your shared experiences.