However, what we interpret as a lack of predictability may possibly be better explained by our own lack of understanding. The truth is that equines act in a way that is predictable to themselves. Our own lack of understanding of their reactions should not make us think that they are lacking intelligence. While we are busy in our own minds thinking of things yet to happen, equines are more comfortable thinking in the here and now. They are very aware of their surroundings.
Animals think in pictures and have incredible memories which are sparked by outside sensory stimuli.
We may not always pick up on those stimuli but they exist, nevertheless. Sometimes it takes a closer look to understand that there is something real going on with an animal. Maybe you think that your equine never had to endure that sort of existence, but another belief of mine is that animal instinct is born out of years of survival. Perhaps your equine is responding to a threat that was a part of the existence of its ancestry. Granted, this has not been proven scientifically, but it is a possible explanation of the existence of instinct.