Licking and chewing in horses are subtle yet significant behaviors that can provide insights into their emotional and physical states. Understanding these actions can help horse owners and enthusiasts better interpret equine communication, enhancing the bond between humans and horses.
What Does Licking and Chewing Mean in Horses?
Licking and chewing in horses are often signs of relaxation and submission. These behaviors typically occur after a horse has been in a stressful situation or when it is processing new information. When a horse licks and chews, it indicates that it is calming down and accepting its environment or the handler’s presence.
Why Do Horses Lick and Chew?
Stress Release and Relaxation
Horses often lick and chew after experiencing stress or tension. This behavior can be compared to a human taking a deep breath after a stressful event. It signifies that the horse is beginning to relax and feel more at ease.
- Example: After being introduced to a new environment or after a training session, a horse may lick and chew as it processes the experience and begins to feel comfortable.
Submission and Learning
Licking and chewing can also indicate that a horse is in a submissive state, especially during training or when interacting with a dominant horse. This behavior shows that the horse is not challenging the authority of the handler or the other horse.
- Example: During groundwork exercises, a horse that starts licking and chewing is likely showing that it understands the commands and is willing to comply.
Digestive Processing
In some cases, licking and chewing might simply be related to the horse’s digestive process. Horses naturally produce saliva when they chew, which aids in digestion. However, in the context of communication, this behavior is more often linked to emotional and mental states.
How to Interpret Licking and Chewing in Horses?
Context Matters
The context in which a horse licks and chews is crucial for accurate interpretation. Observing the surrounding environment and the horse’s overall body language can provide clearer insights into what the behavior signifies.
- Relaxed Ears and Eyes: If a horse’s ears are relaxed and its eyes are soft, licking and chewing likely indicate relaxation.
- Tense Body: If the horse’s body is tense, licking and chewing might be an attempt to self-soothe.
Consistency with Other Behaviors
Licking and chewing should be considered alongside other behaviors to get a full picture of the horse’s state. For example, if a horse is also yawning or stretching, it is likely in a relaxed and comfortable state.
Practical Examples of Licking and Chewing
- Training Sessions: During a training session, a horse that begins to lick and chew after learning a new task is likely processing the information and feeling more comfortable with the exercise.
- New Environments: When introduced to a new paddock or stable, a horse may lick and chew as it becomes accustomed to the new surroundings.
- Social Interactions: In a herd, a horse may lick and chew after a dominant horse has asserted its authority, indicating submission and acceptance of the social hierarchy.
People Also Ask
Why Do Horses Lick and Chew When Being Ridden?
Horses may lick and chew when being ridden if they are processing commands or feeling more relaxed. This behavior suggests that the horse is comfortable with the rider’s cues and is mentally engaged in the activity.
Is Licking and Chewing Always a Good Sign?
While licking and chewing are generally positive signs of relaxation and submission, they should be interpreted in context. If a horse is displaying other signs of stress or discomfort, such as pinned ears or a swishing tail, it may be trying to calm itself in a stressful situation.
How Can I Encourage My Horse to Relax and Chew?
To encourage relaxation, provide a calm environment and consistent training. Positive reinforcement during training sessions can help a horse feel more at ease and naturally lead to licking and chewing behaviors.
Do All Horses Lick and Chew?
Not all horses exhibit licking and chewing behaviors in the same way. Some may show these signs more frequently, while others may express relaxation and submission through different behaviors, such as yawning or lowering their head.
Can Licking and Chewing Indicate Health Issues?
While licking and chewing are typically signs of relaxation, excessive or unusual licking may indicate dental issues or other health concerns. Regular veterinary check-ups can help ensure that your horse’s behavior is not related to health problems.
Conclusion
Understanding the nuances of licking and chewing in horses can greatly enhance the relationship between horse and handler. By paying attention to these subtle cues, you can ensure that your horse feels comfortable and secure, fostering a more harmonious interaction. For further insights into equine behavior, consider exploring topics like horse body language or stress management in horses.