Influence of emotional balance during a learning and recall test in horses (Equus caballus).

This research investigates how the emotional state of horses affects their learning and memory recall abilities during cognitive tests. The study used Equine Appeasing Pheromone (EAP) on half the horses to enhance their positive emotional state, and found it significantly improved their cognitive performance.

Overview of the Study

• The study’s objective was to understand the relationship between emotional state and learning ability in horses, particularly in a high cognitive effort environment.
• 34 horses participated in a cognitive test involving no physical effort to assess their learning, memorization and recall abilities. The focus was also on their capacity to reverse a learned model or their ability to adapt to changing circumstances.

Study Methodology and Test Conditions

• A product known as Synthetic Equine Appeasing Pheromone (EAP) was given to half of the horses. EAP is designed to create a more positive emotional state in horses, thereby potentially affecting their cognitive performance.
• Heart rates were monitored across all horses, with significant changes in heart rate seen in both groups, indicating the horses were emotionally and physically engaged in the task.
• The other half of the horses acted as a control group, receiving a placebo.

Analysis of Results

• The results showed that the horses exposed to EAP made fewer mistakes and made more correct decisions. They showed behaviors indicating they were more alert and attentive and were less likely to be distracted by their external environment.
• The results demonstrate that maintaining a positive or normal emotional state in horses can effectively enhance their learning abilities during cognitive tests. This is mainly achieved by controlling the activation of the limbic system, which is strongly linked to emotions, and thereby reducing stress or fear responses.

Conclusions

• The study indicates that animals, in this case horses, can improve their learning capacity when their emotional state is controlled and kept on a normal or positive level.
• The results have substantial implications for sport and riding activities involving horses, indicating that an animal’s emotional state can significantly impact their learning and responsiveness during training.