Horsing around at playtime

After a morning’s training, many young horses still have plenty of energy to burn. It is therefore not uncommon to see one grab a ball in their box, tossing it in the air or shaking it in their teeth. It’s a natural way for them to unwind and release some of that energy.

Across racing stables, you’ll often spot similar scenes. Whether it’s soccer balls, cones, or plastic containers tied up with string, these objects offer young horses a fun and fulfilling way to stay mentally active and engaged during their time off. Some horses might shake toys around in their mouths, while others may create playful games, like spinning their heads inside feed bins.

While we naturally focus on a horse’s physical health – including proper nutrition, exercise, and regular care – it’s just as important to provide opportunities for mental enrichment. This means encouraging natural behaviours and providing ways for horses to engage with their surroundings. These opportunities are vital for their overall wellbeing.

While older, more seasoned horses may prefer to rest and recharge, younger horses (particularly colts), full of curiosity, benefit greatly from the chance to explore their environment. Without something to keep them occupied, they can develop repetitive behaviours, like pacing or chewing on wood. That’s where toys come in.

Experts agree that mental stimulation is a key part of maintaining a happy and healthy horse. Many horses enjoy objects they can grip, chew, and throw – whether it’s a ball or a cone. For some, this playtime becomes a creative outlet. One horse was even known to toss a witches hat out of his box and wait for someone to throw it back in, almost like a canine playing fetch.

Today, there are a variety of toys available specifically designed for horses – from hanging rubber balls to treat-dispensing gadgets and even mirrors that help reduce isolation stress. Most are affordable and simple to use. While larger inflatable balls might be used in paddocks, in the stable, smaller toys that don’t take up too much space are more popular.

While toys certainly play a role, horses’ basic needs also extend beyond just physical and mental stimulation.

For horses, social contact, companionship, and the freedom to move are just as crucial to their overall wellbeing. When running around together in a paddock, horses often engage in playful bickering, nipping, or simply enjoying the space to move freely. These behaviours, whether playful or social, are key indicators of a horse’s happiness and health. Just like their interactions with toys, their time spent with other horses is vital for their emotional and mental balance.

Enrichment is a great way to keep horses content, and every horse is different. While some thrive on interaction and playful distractions, others may prefer a quiet space to rest. For those who enjoy it, playtime can lead to happier, more balanced horses. When horses are given the freedom to explore and express their playful nature, they’re often more relaxed, easier to manage, and more focused during training.