These sorts of behavioral problem are unfortunately quite common, especially in intensively stabled horses. Irritable behavior includes ear pinning, teeth grinding, head shaking, attempting to lunge toward a handler, trying to bite, and many others. More extreme behaviors include actual biting and kicking.

Genetics, and current and past handling (horsemanship) are the biggest contributors to a horse's attitude. Undetected chronic pain, low grade illness, poor handling, limited turnout, high carbohydrate feeding, and intense show and training schedules - any single one of these or combination also can contribute to this and other behavioral problems.

Taken alone, this observation is usually too broad a sign to help your vet narrow down the problem. However, this behavior is often accompanied by other abnormalities that, taken together, assist your vet in choosing appropriate diagnostics, reaching a diagnosis, and suggesting treatment options. By being an astute observer of your horse, you may notice additional signs that help determine the need for veterinary intervention.