Mike Clinton
Horsing Around with a Chew-tastic Habit!
Horses are magnificent creatures that are beloved by many. They are known for their beauty, grace, and strength. But did you know that horses also have a unique habit of chewing on wood? That’s right! Horses love to gnaw on anything made of wood, from fences to stalls to trees. At first glance, this may seem like a strange behavior, but it actually serves a purpose. Horses have a natural urge to chew, and this habit helps them maintain their dental health and overall well-being.
Chewing on wood can provide horses with essential nutrients that they may not be getting from their regular food. Wood contains minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron, which can be beneficial to a horse’s diet. Additionally, chewing on wood helps horses produce saliva, which aids in the digestion of their food. It also helps to relieve stress and boredom, as horses naturally crave the sensation of chewing.
While wood-chewing is a natural behavior for horses, it is important to monitor it to ensure that it does not become excessive or destructive. If a horse is chewing on inappropriate objects, such as fences or stalls, it can lead to damage and costly repairs. Providing horses with appropriate chewing materials, such as specially-made toys or untreated wood logs, can help to redirect their chewing behavior in a positive way.
Wood-n’t You Like to Know More?
Now that you know more about a horse’s chew-tastic habit, you may be wondering what types of wood are safe for horses to chew on. It is important to note that not all types of wood are created equal. Some types of wood, such as treated lumber or painted wood, can be toxic to horses. It is best to stick with natural, untreated wood, such as oak, maple, or applewood. You can also purchase specially-made horse toys or blocks that are designed for chewing.
In addition to providing appropriate chewing materials, it is important to ensure that your horse’s dental health is in good condition. Regular dental check-ups and floating, which is the process of smoothing out sharp points on a horse’s teeth, can help to prevent discomfort and chewing issues. A well-balanced diet that includes plenty of roughage, such as hay or grass, can also help to maintain a horse’s dental health.
Overall, wood-chewing is a natural and beneficial behavior for horses. By providing appropriate chewing materials and monitoring their chewing behavior, you can help to ensure that your horse stays healthy and happy. So, the next time you see your horse gnawing on a fence post, remember that it’s just their way of keeping their teeth and mind in good shape!