Young horses, known as foals, often exhibit licking and chewing behaviors, but their reasons can differ from those of adult horses. For foals, licking and chewing are typically signs of submission or a learning process, while adult horses may engage in these behaviors to indicate relaxation or satisfaction after a stressful event.
Understanding Licking and Chewing in Horses
Why Do Foals Lick and Chew?
Foals often lick and chew as a sign of submission, especially in the presence of older horses. This behavior is a crucial part of their social learning and helps them communicate their non-threatening intentions. When a foal licks and chews, it signals to the adult horse that it is not a threat and is willing to learn from them. This behavior typically occurs after a foal has been corrected or disciplined by an older horse.
What Triggers Licking and Chewing in Adult Horses?
In adult horses, licking and chewing usually indicate a state of relaxation or the release of tension. After experiencing a stressful situation or undergoing a training session, a horse may start licking and chewing as a sign that it is processing the information and calming down. This behavior can also occur when a horse is content or satisfied, similar to when humans might sigh with relief.
How Do Horses Use Licking and Chewing in Communication?
Horses use licking and chewing as part of their complex communication system. These behaviors help them convey their emotional state and intentions to other horses and humans. For instance, a horse that licks and chews after being handled by a trainer may be signaling that it understands the lesson and is ready to move on.
Practical Examples of Licking and Chewing
- Training Sessions: After learning a new task, a horse may lick and chew to indicate it is processing the new information.
- Social Interactions: Young horses often lick and chew in the presence of dominant horses to show submission.
- Post-Conflict: Horses may lick and chew after a stressful encounter with another horse, signaling a return to calmness.
What Are the Differences in Licking and Chewing Across Ages?
| Behavior | Foals | Adult Horses |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Submission, learning | Relaxation, processing |
| Context | Social interactions | Post-training, stress relief |
| Frequency | More frequent in social settings | Often after specific events |
People Also Ask
Why Do Horses Lick and Chew After Being Ridden?
Horses often lick and chew after being ridden as a way to release tension and indicate they are relaxed. This behavior shows that the horse is processing the experience and feeling comfortable with the situation.
Can Licking and Chewing Indicate Health Issues in Horses?
While licking and chewing are generally normal behaviors, excessive licking or chewing might indicate dental problems or gastrointestinal discomfort. If you notice unusual patterns, it is essential to consult a veterinarian.
How Can I Encourage Positive Licking and Chewing in Training?
To encourage positive licking and chewing, ensure that training sessions are not overly stressful and that the horse has time to process new information. Providing a calm and supportive environment can help horses feel more relaxed and willing to learn.
Is Licking and Chewing a Sign of Submission in Adult Horses?
In adult horses, licking and chewing are less about submission and more about relaxation and processing information. However, it can occasionally indicate submission in specific social contexts.
Do All Horses Exhibit Licking and Chewing?
Most horses exhibit licking and chewing behaviors, but the frequency and context can vary based on individual temperament and experiences. Observing your horse’s behavior can help you understand its unique communication style.
Conclusion
Understanding the reasons behind licking and chewing in horses can enhance your ability to communicate and train them effectively. While foals use these behaviors primarily for submission and learning, adult horses often lick and chew to indicate relaxation and processing. By recognizing these behaviors, you can better interpret your horse’s needs and improve your training approach.
For further reading on horse behavior and training techniques, consider exploring topics such as horse body language and equine stress management.