For some people it can be a very emotional decision as to whether a horse should be gelded or not, particularly if he is of good breeding quality. There is something special about handling and riding stallions with their extra flair and character. Nevertheless the life of a stallion can be very limited with little opportunity for them to express their emotions if they are not allowed to cover mares. Plenty of work, turnout and the right food can all help to release their energy but it's a shame if they can never touch and socialise with another horse. Rather like elephants, horses spend a lot of time touching and interacting with each other and mutual grooming seems to have a calming effect; I'd suggest it was essential for their mental health. Take this away, fill a horse with testosterone and then become his only source of entertainment and life can become very difficult. Some stallions seem to be driven to bite and to seek engagement in 'colt games' and even though this brings them very negative attention, sometimes punishment, they can't stop themselves. Unlike humans (you'd hope!) they cannot rationalise or distract themselves with something else to do; they literally have a one track mind.
