Cribbing on tongue

[Rebels]

Is it possible for a horse to crib by sticking its tongue out between its teeth? My horse is a very odd and often walks round with his tongue out (I think he wants me to play!) Today he was making weird noises, almost like sucking air but i wondered if this is even possible? He is quite stressy (weaves) even when out for 10hrs a day in winter and 24/7 in summer. He has plenty of hay in the field and there is grass and company over the fence plus he gets ridden every day. I dont want him learning any more tricks.

 

[Shilasdair]

I've never heard of a horse being able to crib by biting onto its own tongue, but it is possible he is windsucking.
Maybe he'd be more settled if he were able to go out in the same field with other horses, as touching others seems quite important to them.
I have three mares who live together, and they spend a great deal of time physically touching, they often stand parallel touching hip/shoulder, rub heads on each other, etc.
S

 

[treena]

hi, yes it is possible for a horse to crib on his tongue. unfortunatley, once this habit has been learnt, i dont think it will be something that you can stop...as you cant exactly take his tongue away.... my advice would be to make sure that he always has plenty of hay/fibre in his diet. horses crib to dilute the acid in there stomach. you could also try a magnesium based supplement called magnitude. magnesium will not only help with his stress levels. but it is also a great calmer for the stomach...i hope this is of some help. as a behaviourist, if you require anymore help, please pm me..x

 

[LindyLulu]

my new forest gelding used to windsuck with his tongue out. i made sure he had lots to do in his stable (likits, boredom buster) and he stopped it. he only did it in winter when grazing was restricted.