widsucking

Question
is it possible to cure this habit

Answer
Hi Jess

Thanks for your question.

The short answer is no.  Once it's an ingrained habit it's almost impossible to break.

That said however, I've never had any problems with windsuckers.  I've tried the collars but they don't work and are a safety hazard.  

The best solution I've ever been able to come up with is to coat areas that they can grab hold of with 'no crib' or similar.  This is a foul tasting solution that you paint on fences, stable doors etc and theoretically stops the horses using them to grab hold of with their mouths.  I have though, come across horses that love the taste and it's had a reverse effect!!

I've never had problems keeping condition on windsuckers and I've had top level performance horses who do it without affecting their health in any way.  The only thing I've noticed is that they tend to have a bit more flatulence than the average horse! :)

My advice is that in most cases wind sucking is just an annoying habit and is best ignored.  Of course, if your horse is displaying any signs of illness then a vet should be consulted.

Cheers!