Stress and boredom linked to being shut in a stable lead to repeated negative behaviour in the horse, known as stable vices. Above all we can include weaving, crib-biting and even kicking the door and walking in circles. These behaviours are not dangerous to people, but they can harm the horse itself and lead to health problems later on. For example, weaving places an excessive load on the front legs and joints, while crib-biting leads to digestive problems.
The more time a horse spends in the stable, the more exposed it is to the behaviours mentioned above, so it is worth knowing creative ways to keep it occupied. One such solution is Gryzak Grassland, which provides a safe activity for nervous horses and for those that tend to develop stable vices. The product consists of a stump made from birch or willow and is coated with isomalt and selected herbs and flowers.
Why birch and willow wood? The secret of Grassland chews is that the bark of the stump and the flower-and-herb topping are a rich source of natural nutrients. The bark of these trees is soft enough for horses to gnaw, while they gain health benefits at the same time. Birch bark supports the work of the kidneys, has a detoxifying effect and stimulates collagen synthesis, so it will be helpful above all with joint disease or bone fractures. Willow bark, known as natural aspirin, has an anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving and even fever-reducing effect, because it contains salicylic acid.
And what is behind the name isomalt? It is a natural sugar substitute, also obtained from sugar beet. It has almost half the calories and sweetness of ordinary sugar, so it has a low glycaemic index and is an excellent alternative for horses with diabetes or insulin resistance. In addition it does not affect the taste of the finished product, and its mild sweetness brings out the flavour of the herbs and flowers used as the chew’s topping.
We also receive questions: “Is it possible for a horse to start crib-biting because of the chew?”. As explained above, a horse’s repeated negative behaviours such as crib-biting are a sign of stress and boredom linked to being shut in a stable. Grassland chews were created to ease stress and boredom, and at the same time to prevent unwanted behaviour in horses. Do remember, though, to replace the stump once the horse has chewed off the whole topping together with the bark, for the sake of hygiene and its health <3