Bem-estar e estereotipias em equinos: revisão de literatura

Abstract

Equine welfare is closely related to appropriate management and environmental conditions. This work explores the assessment of the welfare of these animals, focusing on the main stereotypies observed, such as aerophagia, head shaking and coprophagia. These stereotypies are often caused by excessive confinement, lack of social interaction and inappropriate stimuli, reflecting stress and psychological distress. Using a systematic literature review, the study analyzes the impact of modern management practices, such as isolation in stalls, inadequate feeding and restriction of movement, on the physical and emotional health of horses. The Five Domains of Animal Welfare, which include nutrition, housing, health, behavior and emotional state, are used as parameters to evaluate and propose improvements in management practices. The work highlights the importance of environmental enrichment, social interaction and access to pastures as effective strategies to minimize stereotypes and promote a better quality of life. It is concluded that the adoption of evidence-based practices, which respect the natural behavior of