Calming products and sedatives Archives

Horses can become anxious or stressed due to travel, competition, veterinary procedures, or changes in their environment. To help manage their anxiety, calming products and sedatives are available in different forms, from natural supplements to prescription medications.

The right calming agent depends on the horse’s sensitivity, activity level, and the situation requiring sedation. Below, we explore calming supplements, herbal solutions, and veterinary sedatives to help keep your horse relaxed and focused.

Types of Calming Products for Horses

1. Natural & Herbal Calming Supplements

These are ideal for mild anxiety and daily stress relief. They work by supporting the nervous system without causing drowsiness.

Magnesium-Based Calmers – Magnesium helps relax muscles and nerves.
Tryptophan – An amino acid that promotes serotonin production, helping with focus and relaxation.
Valerian Root – A natural herbal sedative, but may be banned in competitions.
Chamomile & Passionflower – Have mild calming effects on nervous horses.
CBD (Hemp-Based Products) – Supports overall relaxation and stress management.

Popular brands include SmartPak SmartCalm, Perfect Prep, and Quietex.

2. Amino Acid & Vitamin-Based Calmers

These formulas help balance brain chemistry and muscle tension in high-energy horses.

Thiamine (Vitamin B1) – Supports a balanced nervous system and reduces excitability.
Taurine & L-Theanine – Promote relaxation without sedation.
Melatonin – Helps regulate sleep cycles and calm horses in stressful environments.

3. Paste & Fast-Acting Oral Calmers

These are great for trailer loading, farrier visits, or competition days.

Oral syringes with L-Tryptophan or Magnesium provide quick, short-term relaxation.
Pre-event pastes like Perfect Prep EQ Gold and SynChill are competition-safe.

Veterinary Sedatives for Horses

For severe anxiety, medical procedures, or travel, a veterinarian may prescribe stronger sedatives.

Acepromazine (Ace) – A mild tranquilizer used for calming before stressful events.
Detomidine (Dormosedan®) – A more potent sedative and pain reliever.
Xylazine – Often used in veterinary settings for handling difficult horses.
Romifidine (Sedivet®) – Provides long-lasting sedation with minimal ataxia (wobbliness).

Note: Prescription sedatives should always be administered by a veterinarian or under their guidance.

Choosing the Right Calming Product

For daily nervousness? Try herbal or magnesium-based supplements.
Pre-competition focus? Look for L-Tryptophan, B vitamins, or Taurine-based formulas.
Short-term stress relief? Use oral paste calmers before travel or farrier visits.
For medical procedures or severe anxiety? Consult a vet for prescription sedatives.

Final Thoughts

Managing stress and anxiety in horses is essential for their health, performance, and overall well-being. Whether using natural calming aids or vet-prescribed sedatives, always ensure the product is safe, effective, and suited to your horse’s needs.