Management, health, and abnormal behaviors of horses: A survey in small equestrian centers in Brazil

Care conditions of horses housed in small equestrian establishments and the occurrence of health and behavioral problems were assessed in 197 animals. Based on questionnaires and direct observations of the animals, it was noted that 8% of all animals were fed exclusively on pasture, whereas 92% received commercial concentrate or grain with limited or no grass. Sixty percent of the horses spent 20-24 hours/day in the stalls, 30% spent 12 hours/day, and 10% were kept outdoors. Eighty five percent exercised regularly, whereas 15% did not exercise at all. Wounds (18%), colic (6%), and strangles (3%) were the most cited diseases in the interviews. Fifty-six percent of the horses showed behavioral problems; the frequency and type of abnormal behavior varied according to horse use (P < 0.001). The management of the horses presented numerous concerns regarding feeding and housing, probably leading to increased behavioral problems. The results presented here would be a useful tool for the education of owners and caretakers.