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Animal welfare (South Mimms, England)2024; 33; e40; doi: 10.1017/awf.2024.38

Living the good life? A systematic review of behavioural signs of affective state in the domestic horse (Equus caballus) and factors relating to quality of life. Part I: Fulfilment of species-specific needs.

Abstract: The welfare of horses involved in sport and leisure activities has come under increasing scrutiny, both from within the equine sector and from the public. A systematic review of scientific evidence was conducted to derive observable, evidence-based behavioural measures of positive or negative affective state and factors relating to quality of life in the domestic horse (Equus caballus). Two separate searches (including the terms 'emotion/affect', or 'stress') were conducted, with 179 articles being retained. In Part I of this two-part review (companion paper published simultaneously), articles relating to the extent to which the species-specific needs of the horse are fulfilled in the home environment (n = 21), in relation to social grouping (n = 20), and during weaning (n = 14) were reviewed. Experimental tests of affective state in relation to housing and management (n = 8), and studies relating to stereotypical behaviour (n = 7) were also included. Opportunities for behavioural expression were dependent upon the provision of social and physical resources. Withdrawn or agitated behaviours in situ, avoidance behaviour during handling and agonistic intra-species interactions were indicative of negative affective state. Affiliative intra-specific social interactions, and forage ingestion were considered positive signs. For horses to live a good life, their need for space, companionship, and forage must be prioritised from birth and throughout their lives.
© The Author(s) 2024.
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Publication Date: 2024-10-21 PubMed ID: 39464387PubMed Central: PMC11503716DOI: 10.1017/awf.2024.38Google Scholar: Lookup
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  • Journal Article

Summary

This research summary has been generated with artificial intelligence and may contain errors and omissions. Refer to the original study to confirm details provided. Submit correction.

This study critically reviews existing scientific literature for evidence of positive or negative emotional states and quality of life factors in domestic horses. Main themes discussed include horses’ species-specific needs at home, social grouping, and weaning, as well as behavior in relation to housing, management, and the exhibition of stereotypical behavior.

Methodology

  • The researchers conducted two separate systematic literature searches. The search terms used were ’emotion/affect’ or ‘stress’. They compiled and reviewed a total of 179 articles pertaining to horse behavior and welfare.
  • Each article was assessed on how it related to horse welfare particularly in relation to the animal’s basic needs, their social grouping, stress during weaning, housing and management conditions, and evidence of stereotypical behavior.

Findings

  • The researchers found that the ability for a horse to express its behavioral tendencies was highly dependent on its access to social and physical resources.
  • Agitated or withdrawn behavior, avoidance during handling, and aggressive interactions with other horses were identified as indicative of a negative emotional state in horses.
  • On the other hand, positive signs of emotional state included social interactions with other horses and the act of ingesting forage.
  • The researchers concluded that for a horse to lead a good life in terms of welfare, its needs for space, companionship, and adequate forage must be prioritized from birth and maintained throughout its lifespan.

Implications

  • This systematic review provides an evidence-based foundation for understanding horse welfare and behavioral signs related to emotional state.
  • The findings of the study could be used to inform better practices in horse maintenance and care for domestic horses, especially those involved in sport and leisure activities.
  • A greater understanding of the factors that contribute to the life quality of horses can help improve conditions for these animals and help lead strategies for industry-wide changes in horse welfare and management.

Cite This Article

APA
Hall C, Kay R. (2024). Living the good life? A systematic review of behavioural signs of affective state in the domestic horse (Equus caballus) and factors relating to quality of life. Part I: Fulfilment of species-specific needs. Anim Welf, 33, e40. https://doi.org/10.1017/awf.2024.38

Publication

Animal welfare (South Mimms, England)
ISSN: 2054-1538
NlmUniqueID: 9214272
Country: England
Language: English
Volume: 33
Pages: e40

Researcher Affiliations

Hall, Carol
  • School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Southwell, Nottinghamshire NG25 0QF, UK.
  • National Equine Welfare Council, Slad Lane, Princes Risborough, Bucks HP27 0PP, UK.
Kay, Rachel
  • School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Southwell, Nottinghamshire NG25 0QF, UK.
  • National Equine Welfare Council, Slad Lane, Princes Risborough, Bucks HP27 0PP, UK.

Conflict of Interest Statement

None.

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