Tips for Excitable or Nervous Horses

Posted by Brookby Herbs, 23 Dec, 2010

Horse Health, Vitamins/Supplements

Excitability is probably one of the biggest and most common problems with horses, but it is important to find out why your horse is behaving like this before you try to treat it.

Some of the most likely reasons are; lack of confidence, fear or pain, lack of exercise and too much high-energy food.

Excitement at meeting other horses, poor discipline and general adrenaline rush caused by competition atmosphere can also add to the problem.

If the problem is caused by an overly high energy diet then your solution will be rather simple, change the diet. If, however your horse becomes anxious and nervous during times of competition or travel then herbs can be a very effective means of reducing some of the stress your horse is experiencing.

Herbs such as chamomile, skullcap, vervain, hops and valerian work on relaxing the nerves. These herbs reduce the anxiety or excitability your horse may be experiencing without causing the horse to become drowsy.

Some of these herbs also work on relaxing the muscles and the gut and therefore cause the whole body to relax without causing the drowsy state that conventional sedatives can induce.

The horses gut is readily affected by their mental state so any nervous tension can effect the digestive system also. This is another reason for trying to reduce any tension or stress your horse may be experiencing and I have certainly found herbs to be a gentle and enjoyable way of doing this.

Our Herbal Calmer, Calmer Plus and Valerian Free Herbal Calmer contain a blend of relaxing herbs.

It is best to allow 3-5 days for the herbs to take effect and should be fed a few days prior to competition or travel.

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