Practical review of self-mutilation in horses.

This research article discusses the concept of self-mutilation in horses, proposing three distinct types of this behavior and exploring potential methods for management and modification.

Understanding Self-Mutilation in Horses

• The article begins by defining self-mutilation in horses as behaviors such as biting, stomping, kicking, rubbing, and lunging into objects. This is considered a concerning issue as it can lead to severe injuries and even potentially threaten the life and fertility of the horse.
• Based on the author’s clinical experience, three types of self-mutilation are proposed: Type I, which represents a normal behavioral response to continuous or intermittent physical discomfort; Type II, found predominantly in stallions and geldings and is characterized as intermale aggression directed towards oneself; and Type III, which describes more quiet and usually rhythmically repetitive or methodical behavioral patterns, such as nipping at various areas of the body.

Prevalence and Variation of Self-Mutilation

• The author acknowledges that the exact prevalence of self-mutilation in horses is uncertain, but one survey suggests that it may be observed in up to 2% of domestic stallions. The behavior can vary greatly in frequency and intensity between different stallions.

Evaluating and Managing Self-Mutilation

• According to the study, careful evaluation of the horse’s behavior is often necessary to distinguish the specific type of self-mutilation. Type I, rooted in physical discomfort, can often be eliminated by addressing and relieving this discomfort.
• For Types II and III, understanding of the intermale interactive behavior of horses and the potential environmental triggers can guide effective and humane management or modification of the behavior.
• Additionally, the author suggests that pharmacologic interventions might be a useful supplementary strategy to manage self-mutilation, alongside management and dietary changes. This indicates a potential interdisciplinary approach to handling the issue, combining elements of veterinary medicine, behavioral science, and environmental management.