Which of the following behaviors may indicate stall vices due to inadequate mental and physical stimulation?

Study for the Fear Free Veterinary Equine Exam. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Prepare effectively for your certification!

The correct answer encompasses all the listed behaviors because each one can be a sign of stall vices that arise from a lack of sufficient mental and physical stimulation in horses.

Pawing is frequently observed in horses that are bored or anxious. When a horse pawns, it can be a way of expressing frustration or restlessness, indicating that the animal is seeking ways to engage its body and mind.

Cribbing is another stereotypic behavior that stems from boredom or anxiety. Horses may start to crib as a coping mechanism to alleviate stress or simply because they are not occupied with other activities. This behavior involves grasping a solid object, such as a stall door, and sucking air, which can also have a physical component regarding the horse's cravings.

Weaving is characterized by the side-to-side swaying of a horse in its stall and is similarly linked to boredom and a lack of stimulation. Horses that do not receive adequate exercise or mental challenges often resort to this behavior as a way to release pent-up energy or to cope with the confinement of a stall.

Thus, all these behaviors—pawing, cribbing, and weaving—serve as indicators that a horse may be experiencing frustration or anxiety due to insufficient opportunities for engagement and activity. Providing enrichment,

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy