Relieve STALL BOREDOM

If your horse is facing stall rest, keep him entertained with simple activities and toys that he'll enjoy.

- MOIRA K. McGHEE

When your horse can't come out and play because he's temporarily confined to his stall due to sickness or injury, he can get really bored. Think about how you felt as a child when you were ill and confined to your bedroom while your friends frolicked outside without you.

Here, we'll cover top signs that your horse is bored, plus effective ways to help alleviate this boredom inside the stall. Some are super easy!

SIGNS OF BOREDOM

Horses are used to running around and getting regular exercise. Recognizing when your horse is feeling bored in his stall is important. Bored horses can become depressed, develop undesirable behaviors, and can even hurt themselves. The following are common signs to watch for that may indicate your horse is feeling bored in his stall confinement.

Weaving: If your horse is constantly rocking his body back and forth while standing in place, it could be a sign of stress and boredom. He may also bob his head up and down while weaving to provide more stimulation. Excessive weaving over a long time could cause damage to your horse's joints and hooves.

Stall Walking: Walking in circles or back and forth in the stall may indicate restlessness and boredom in horses. Short-term pacing may not cause any long-term harm to your horse, but pro-B longed pacing could impact his hooves.