PREVALENCE OF CLASSIC STEREOTYPIES IN CHILEAN HORSES OF THE COUNTIES OF PINTO AND COIHUECO, BIOBÍO, CHILE

Abstract

In Chile, there have been two studies on classic stereotypic behavior in Chilean horses breed. The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence of classic stereotypies in Chilean horses stabled of the counties of Pinto and Coihueco, Biobío Region, Chile, and its association with sex and age. All Chilean horses registered and stabled in both counties were studied (n=103). Presence or absence of classic stereotypies (crib-biting, weaving and box-walking) was determined by direct observation of 20 min per hour for 4 hours. Data were analyzed dividing horses by sex into three groups: stallions (n = 36), geldings (n = 33) and mares (n = 34). Based on their age, they were divided into three groups: 3-5 years old (n = 14), 5-15 years old (n = 83) and >15 years old (n = 6). Results were expressed as simple percentages. The effects of age and sex were analyzed statistically by Fisher’s exact test with a significance level at 0.05. Total prevalence of classic stereotypies was 6.8% (1.94% crib-biting, 0.98% weaving and 3.88% box-walking). No statistic differences were found regarding sex or age. Results suggest that Chilean horses showed a normal prevalence of classic stereotypies and that box-walking is the most common stereotypic behavior in horses of this breed.