What is in pine bark?

[ridefast]

I've noticed my horse has started having a nibble on the trunk of one of the pine trees when waiting to come in in the morning (we have a little holding area so she only has access to it then all the time) She's not the only one too, I was wondering what qualities does pine bark have, what is she lacking? I tried to google it but couldn't find anything helpful.

 

[Enfys]

http://www.herbal-horsekeeping.com/horse_maritime_pine_bark.html

http://www.ehow.com/list_5887114_pine-tar-uses.html

http://www.ehow.com/about_6602591_horses-pine-other-tree-bark.html

She may just be nibbling because she can, especially when they are are on hay and grass is shorter they are not getting enough roughage (in their opinion) I think it is often a physical need rather than a dietary need. Mine eat tree bark all winter long, as soon as they grass starts growing and they can actually graze they stop. I cut branches for the horses that don't have trees in their paddocks, that saves my nice cedar fence posts If she is nibbling when she is in a holding pen perhaps it is in anticipation of her feed? My arab grabs hold of the gate (thankfully metal) and grinds her teeth on it when she sees me coming, her teeth are fine, she just wants me to stop dawdling.

 

[ridefast]

Thanks, totally didn't connect it with her feed! Although interesting it can be used to prevent cancer, she's had sarcoids treated this year, could be a link there? Find it very interesting working all this stuff out and what it mean. Or perhaps she just likes trees

 

[misterjinglejay]

Horses also seem to like the taste of the pine resin. I tried some once (picked off a bit, and didn't eat the bark), it made my tongue go 'cold', but felt fine apart from that