Stress in horses: How to help our equine friend?

Le stress at the cheval just like at the dog and cat, as we read in our previous article, can have a significant impact on well-being and Mental Health. To ensure their development, it is crucial to recognize the signs of stress oranxiety, to identify the underlying causes and to put in place effective strategies to help them regain their serenity. Here is a practical overview to accompany your horse in the quest for tranquility.

Stress in the Horse sitting on the grass asking questions

How to recognize stress in horses?

If you cheval starts doing somersaults when hearing the slightest sound of a leaf, this is perhaps a sign that he is taking life a little too seriously. gallop ! Here are some signs to watch out for:

  • Changes in behavior: A nervousness increased, restless movements or an hyperactivity can indicate a state of stress in horses.
  • Physical signs: Muscle tension, excessive sweating, or loss of appetite can also be indicators of stress in horses.
  • Stereotypic behavior: Repetitive behaviors such as box twitching or head bobbing are often associated with chronic stress.
  • Change in social interactions: Isolation, aggression towards peers, or withdrawal from human interactions can signal discomfort.

In other words, when the cheval begins to practiceaerial horse riding without saddle or rider, it is time to offer him a session of equine relaxation !

Stress in the horse who makes his partner jump during competition

What are the causes of stress in horses?

It is not because they are afraid that their manes are not in fashion this season and their clogs aren't bright enough for the spring ball equine...

  • Unsuitable environment: Restricted space, unstimulating living conditions, or poor diet management can generate stress. This can lead to health problems such as gastrointestinal ulcers and decreased immunity.
  • Physical pain: Health problems, such as muscle aches, articular ou dental, can contribute to stress in the horse. Chronic pain can lead to decreased performance, deterioration in general condition and increased irritability.
  • Changes in routine: Travel, competitions or changes in training can disrupt the emotional balance of the cheval. This can result in decreased appetite, trouble sleeping, and an increased risk of injury due to unpredictable behavior.
  • Social factors: Negative interactions with other animals or coercive training methods can also influence the level of stress. This can lead to behavioral problems, decreased trust in humans, and difficulty in social relationships with others equines.

In short, understanding the sources of stress of horses can be as tricky as trying to convince a poney to wear rain boots in sunny weather.

What are the risks of chronic stress?

oh chronic stress in horses, it's like permanent fireworks in their little brain equine ! Imagine them, galloping through the meadows with clouds of thoughts anxious above their heads. “Did I eat my oatmeal this morning? Am I fast enough to escape that weird thing making noise in the corner of the paddock?” Honestly, being a cheval modern, it's not easy! They have their own versions of midlife crisis and career burnout, you know.

In short, chronic stress at the cheval can lead to an increase in the production ofacid gastric, which attacks the gastrointestinal mucous membranes and increases the risk of developing ulcers. THE gastric ulcers can cause symptoms such as colic, loss of appetite, mood changes and decreased performance. Therefore, effective management of stress is essential to prevent these serious health problems.

Stress in horses alone in their stable in depression

How to de-stress a horse?

Organize a spa for him equine with oatmeal massages, relaxing mud baths and a yoga session for trotters might be a solution, but let's start simpler...

  • Provide a spacious and safe environment with access to pasture to promote well-being.
  • Establish a stable routine to reduce anxiety and increase safety.
  • Use positive training techniques to build confidence and reduce stress.
  • Provide veterinary follow-up to treat physical pain.
  • Allow quality time to strengthen emotional bonds and stimulate emotional well-being.
  • Use horse feed supplements specially designed to protect the stomach lining.

Find in our range stress & behavior our different solutions such as food supplements Ekygard+ – Gastric protection – Acidity of the stomach – Horse – 2,4 kg – AUDEVARD

Ekygard + Gastric protection - Acidity - Horse - 2,4 kg - Audevard - Products-veto.com

Thanks to its complete formula containing a new complex of plant origin, it offers triple protection againstgastric acidity. Recommended for race horses during the training period, those monitored for gastric ulcers, and medicalized foals, Ekygard+ is an effective solution to protect the gastrointestinal health of your equine companion.

Stress in the Horse on its back lounging on the grass

Remember that each cheval is unique, and that an individualized approach is often necessary to meet its specific needs.

Understand and manage the stress at the cheval is essential to ensure your well-being and performance. By identifying early signs of stress, by identifying the underlying causes, and implementing appropriate decompression strategies, you can help your companion equine to lead a balanced and happy life.

If you have concerns about the well-being of your cheval, do not hesitate to consult a veterinarian or a behavior specialist equine for personalized advice.