How Horse Calming Supplements Can Benefit Riders

If you’re an equestrian, you know that horses are complex creatures with distinct personalities, just like humans. Despite their beauty, strength, and speed, horses are prone to anxiety, stress, and nervousness, which can affect their performance, behavior, and health. As a rider, you want your horse to feel relaxed, focused, and confident, whether you’re training, competing, or simply enjoying a ride. One solution that has gained popularity in recent years is horse calming supplements, which claim to promote calmness, reduce anxiety, and improve overall well-being. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits and drawbacks of horse calming supplements, how they work, and how to choose the right one for your horse.

Understanding Horse Anxiety and Stress

What causes horse anxiety and stress?

Horses can experience anxiety and stress for various reasons, including environmental factors, social dynamics, training methods, health issues, and genetics. Some common triggers of horse anxiety and stress are:

• Loud noises (e.g., thunder, fireworks, traffic)
• Crowded or unfamiliar places (e.g., shows, trail rides, transport)
• Separation from herd mates or owners
• New or challenging tasks (e.g., jumping, dressage, racing)
• Pain or discomfort (e.g., injury, illness, dental problems)
• Past traumas or abuse

How does anxiety and stress affect horses?

Anxiety and stress can manifest in different ways in horses, depending on their personality, breed, and experience. Some common signs of horse anxiety and stress are:

• Restlessness or agitation (e.g., pawing, pacing, circling)
• Excessive sweating or salivation
• Shaking or trembling
• Tail swishing or pinning
• Refusal to eat or drink
• Excessive vocalization (e.g., whinnying, neighing)
• Increased heart rate and respiration
• Avoidance or aggression towards humans or other horses
• Poor performance or training results

Prolonged or severe anxiety and stress can have negative effects on horses’ physical and mental health, such as weakened immune system, digestive problems, ulcers, muscle tension, weight loss, depression, and learned helplessness.

What are Horse Calming Supplements?

Types of Horse Calming Supplements

Horse calming supplements are nutritional or herbal products that aim to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation in horses. They come in various forms, such as powders, pellets, pastes, and liquids, and can be added to horses’ feed or given orally. The most common types of horse calming supplements are:

• Magnesium: a mineral that supports nerve and muscle function and can help calm nervous horses
• L-tryptophan: an amino acid that boosts serotonin production and can promote calmness and sleepiness in horses

• Valerian root: a herb that has sedative properties and can reduce anxiety in horses
• Chamomile: a herb that has anti-inflammatory and calming effects and can soothe nervous horses
• B vitamins: a group of vitamins that play a role in nervous system function and can reduce stress in horses

Ingredients in Horse Calming Supplements

Different horse calming supplements may contain different ingredients or combinations of ingredients, depending on their intended effects and formulations. Some common ingredients in horse calming supplements and their benefits are:

• Magnesium oxide or magnesium sulfate: can help regulate muscle contractions and nerve impulses, and support bone and heart health
• Thiamine (vitamin B1): can improve mood and energy levels, and enhance nerve function
• Inositol (vitamin B8): can promote mental and emotional balance, and support liver function
• Riboflavin (vitamin B2): can boost energy metabolism and antioxidant activity, and enhance skin and coat health
• Pyridoxine (vitamin B6): can support brain function and immune system function, and regulate hormone balance
• Niacin (vitamin B3): can improve circulation and cholesterol levels, and reduce inflammation
• Tryptophan: can stimulate serotonin production, and enhance mood and sleep quality
• Valerian root extract: can promote relaxation, and reduce stress and anxiety
• Passionflower extract: can calm the nervous system, and reduce muscle tension and insomnia
• Chamomile extract: can soothe digestive and skin issues, and promote relaxation

Do Horse Calming Supplements Work?

Evidence for Horse Calming Supplements

There is limited scientific research on the effectiveness of horse calming supplements, and most of the available studies have been done on specific ingredients rather than complete formulations. However, some studies have suggested that certain ingredients in horse calming supplements may have calming effects on horses.

For example, a study published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior in 2012 found that horses given a magnesium supplement had reduced anxiety behaviors during a standardized stress test, compared to horses given a placebo. Another study published in the Journal of Equine Veterinary Science in 2015 found that horses given a tryptophan supplement had reduced heart rate variability during a veterinary examination, compared to horses given a placebo.

How to Measure the Effectiveness of Horse Calming Supplements

The effectiveness of horse calming supplements may vary depending on various factors, such as the type of supplement, the dosage, the duration of use, and the individual horse’s response. Some ways to measure the effectiveness of horse calming supplements are:

• Observe the horse’s behavior and body language before and after administering the supplement, and compare it to their usual behavior and body language in similar situations.
• Use objective measures such as heart rate, respiration rate, cortisol levels, or behavioral scoring systems to assess the horse’s stress level.
• Consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to monitor the horse’s health and behavior, and adjust the supplement regimen as needed.

How to Choose the Right Horse Calming Supplement

Factors to Consider

Choosing the right horse calming supplement can be a daunting task, as there are many products on the market with different ingredients, claims, and prices. Some factors to consider when choosing a horse calming supplement are:

• The horse’s individual needs and temperament: different horses may have different triggers and reactions to anxiety and stress, and may respond better to certain ingredients or formulations.
• The quality and safety of the supplement: look for supplements that are manufactured by reputable companies, have clear labeling and dosage instructions, and have been tested for purity and potency.
• The ingredients and dosage: check the list of ingredients and their amounts, and make sure they are appropriate for the horse’s age, weight, and health status

• The form and palatability of the supplement: consider the horse’s preferences and feeding habits, and choose a form (such as powder, pellets, or paste) that is easy to administer and mix with feed.
• The price and value: compare the prices of different supplements based on their ingredients, dosage, and quantity, and choose one that fits your budget and needs.

Tips for Buying and Using Horse Calming Supplements

Here are some tips to keep in mind when buying and using horse calming supplements:

• Read the label and instructions carefully, and follow the recommended dosage and administration guidelines.
• Start with a low dose and gradually increase it if needed, to avoid overdosing or adverse reactions.
• Allow enough time for the supplement to take effect before expecting significant changes in the horse’s behavior or performance.
• Keep track of the horse’s response to the supplement, and adjust the dosage or formulation as needed.
• Combine the supplement with other management strategies for reducing stress and anxiety in horses, such as proper training, exercise, nutrition, and environment.
• Consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if the horse has any medical conditions or is on medication.

Conclusion

Horse calming supplements can be a helpful tool for riders who want to improve their horse’s behavior and performance, by reducing stress and anxiety. While the effectiveness of horse calming supplements may vary depending on various factors, such as the type of supplement, the dosage, and the individual horse’s response, there is some evidence to suggest that certain ingredients in horse calming supplements may have calming effects on horses. By choosing the right horse calming supplement and using it appropriately, riders can support their horse’s mental and emotional well-being, and enhance their partnership and success.

FAQs

1. Can horse calming supplements be harmful to horses? While most horse calming supplements are safe and well-tolerated by horses, some may cause adverse effects or interactions if used improperly or in excess. It is important to consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if the horse has any medical conditions or is on medication.
2. How long does it take for horse calming supplements to work? The time it takes for horse calming supplements to work may vary depending on the type of supplement, the dosage, and the individual horse’s response. Some supplements may take a few days or weeks to build up in the horse’s system and produce noticeable effects, while others may work more quickly.
3. Can horse calming supplements replace proper training and management? No, horse calming supplements should not be used as a substitute for proper training and management of horses. While they can help reduce stress and anxiety in horses, they should be used as part of a comprehensive approach to horse care that includes proper nutrition, exercise, environment, and training.
4. Are there any natural alternatives to horse calming supplements? Yes, there are some natural remedies and management strategies that can help reduce stress and anxiety in horses, such as massage, aromatherapy, acupuncture, herbal supplements, and changes in environment or routine. However, it is important to consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist before using any new natural remedy or strategy, to ensure its safety and efficacy.
5. Can horse calming supplements improve a horse’s performance in competitions? While horse calming supplements may help reduce stress and anxiety in horses, and improve their mood and behavior, they should not be used to enhance a horse’s performance in competitions through artificial means. The use of performance-enhancing drugs or substances is prohibited by most equine sports organizations, and can result in disqualification, fines, and other penalties.