The question of whether a horse should salivate with a bit has been debated among equestrians for many years. Some believe that a horse should not salivate with a bit, while others argue that it is a natural response of a horse to a bit. In this article, we will explore both sides of this debate and discuss the importance of salivation when it comes to the use of a bit.
What is a Bit?
A bit is a device that is placed in a horse’s mouth, usually made of metal or other hard material, to help the rider control the horse. It is used to help riders steer the horse in the desired direction, as well as to control its speed. Bits come in many shapes and sizes, from the traditional snaffle to the more modern bits with rollers, bars, and other features.
How Does a Horse React to a Bit?
When a horse is first introduced to a bit, it can be a stressful experience. The horse may become agitated, and may try to resist the bit. However, with proper training and time, most horses eventually learn to accept the bit.
Once a horse is used to the bit, it will begin to relax and accept it. It is common for a horse to salivate when it is wearing a bit, as this is a natural response to the pressure of the bit in its mouth.
What is Salivation?
Salivation is the production of saliva by the horse’s salivary glands. Saliva is a clear, watery liquid that helps lubricate the mouth and aid in digestion. It is normal for a horse to produce saliva when it is chewing its food, as well as when it is wearing a bit.
Benefits of Salivation with a Bit
There are several benefits to a horse salivating when it is wearing a bit. Salivation helps to keep the bit from becoming too dry and uncomfortable for the horse, as well as providing lubrication to the inside of the horse’s mouth. This helps to reduce the risk of the bit irritating the horse’s gums or causing sores and abrasions.
In addition, salivation can help to reduce the amount of pressure that the bit is placing on the horse’s mouth. This can help to make the horse more comfortable while it is wearing the bit, and can help to encourage it to accept the bit more easily.
Disadvantages of Salivation with a Bit
While there are many benefits to a horse salivating when it is wearing a bit, there are also a few potential drawbacks. Excessive salivation can make the bit slippery, which can make it difficult for the rider to maintain control of the horse. In addition, if the saliva is left on the bit for too long, it can start to smell and attract flies.
The Debate: Should a Horse Salivate with a Bit?
As we have seen, there are both benefits and drawbacks to a horse salivating when it is wearing a bit. As such, opinions on the matter are divided. Some equestrians believe that a horse should not salivate with a bit, while others argue that it is a natural response of a horse to a bit and can be beneficial.
Arguments for a Horse Salivating with a Bit
- Natural Response: As mentioned before, salivation is a natural response of a horse to a bit, and is a sign that the horse is comfortable with the bit. Therefore, some equestrians argue that a horse should salivate with a bit.
- Comfort: Salivation helps to keep the bit from becoming too dry and uncomfortable for the horse, as well as providing lubrication to the inside of the horse’s mouth. This can help to make the horse more comfortable while it is wearing the bit.
- Pressure Reduction: Salivation can help to reduce the amount of pressure that the bit is placing on the horse’s mouth. This can help to make the horse more comfortable while it is wearing the bit, and can help to encourage it to accept the bit more easily.
Arguments Against a Horse Salivating with a Bit
- Slippery Bit: Excessive salivation can make the bit slippery, which can make it difficult for the rider to maintain control of the horse.
- Smelly Bit: If the saliva is left on the bit for too long, it can start to smell and attract flies.
- Unnatural Response: Some equestrians argue that salivation is an unnatural response to a bit, and should not be encouraged.
Conclusion: Should a Horse Salivate with a Bit?
At the end of the day, the decision of whether a horse should salivate with a bit is up to the individual equestrian. Some believe that salivation is a natural response of a horse to a bit and can be beneficial, while others argue that it is an unnatural response and should be discouraged. Ultimately, it is up to the rider to decide what is best for their horse.