Horse Calming Supplements: Why CBD Might Be Your Best Choice

Posted by The Healing Cowgirl

On August 29, 2023

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Being a horse owner comes with numerous responsibilities, including managing your horse’s emotional well-being. Various factors can trigger stress and anxiety in horses, such as environmental changes and competitive events. Among a plethora of calming supplements available today, CBD is emerging as a popular option due to its potential advantages. In this blog post, we aim to explain why CBD could be your top choice when looking for an effective horse calming supplement.

Understanding Horse Anxiety and Stress:

Just like humans, horses can experience stress and anxiety. While a certain level of stress is normal and can even be beneficial (for instance, it can make a horse more alert in potentially dangerous situations), chronic or high levels of stress can have negative impacts on a horse’s health and behavior.

Stress in horses can arise from various sources:

Environmental changes, such as moving to a new stable or changes in the herd, can cause stress.
Training, competitions, and travel can also be stressors for many horses.
Health issues, both physical and mental, can lead to stress and anxiety as well.
A horse suffering from chronic pain, for instance, may exhibit signs of stress.

Signs of stress and anxiety in horses can vary but some common indicators include changes in behavior, such as aggression or withdrawal, changes in eating habits, and physical signs such as increased heart rate, sweating, or restlessness. Chronic stress can also lead to more serious health problems, including digestive issues and a weakened immune system. Understanding these signs is crucial in identifying when your horse may need help and finding an effective solution.

An Overview of Horse Calming Supplements:

There’s a vast array of horse calming supplements available in the market today. These range from herbal remedies to mineral-based options, and synthetic products. Each of these has a unique mechanism of action, with varying levels of effectiveness and potential side effects. Choosing the right calming supplement often involves some trial and error, and what works best will depend on the individual needs of your horse.

CBD as a Horse Calming Supplement:

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in hemp plants. It’s gaining traction in both human and animal health circles due to its potential benefits for managing stress and anxiety. Preliminary research and anecdotal evidence suggest that CBD can help manage stress and anxiety in horses, leading to calmer behavior and improved overall well-being. Whether you’re wanting a slow, steady ride or looking at speed events, CBD can offer a sense of calm and focus that helps your animal focus on the job at hand, and not lose any speed or athletic ability.

Why Choose CBD Over Other Supplements:

CBD stands out among other calming supplements for several reasons. As a natural compound, it’s less likely to have severe side effects compared to synthetic alternatives which can sometimes have long term implications for the gut, liver, and kidneys. Besides, CBD offers an array of other potential health benefits, including healthy hooves, coat & hair, immune support, gut health, and anti-inflammatory properties that may be beneficial for horses with chronic pain conditions.

Calming without the high:

While full spectrum hemp contains CBD and other cannabinoids, including trace amounts of THC, it’s important to understand that it must meet the requirement of 0.30 and under. With that understanding, there’s not enough THC in the product to create any sense of a “high,” however the other cannabinoids represented in the hemp plant do offer a sense of calming and relaxation, along with many other health benefits.

Choosing a CBD Product for Your Horse:

When selecting a CBD product for your horse, it’s essential to consider the source of the CBD, the form of the product (e.g., oil, treat, pellet, paste), and the concentration of CBD. High-quality, full-spectrum CBD oil products are recommended. Be mindful of dosage—while CBD is generally well-tolerated, it’s best to start with a low dose and gradually increase as necessary.

While the landscape of horse calming supplements is broad, CBD is emerging as a compelling option. Its potential to alleviate stress and anxiety, along with its range of additional health benefits, makes it a notable choice for horse owners. As with any new supplement, consulting with a vet before starting a regimen is crucial.

Interested in exploring the benefits of CBD for your horse? Check out our high-quality CBD products designed specifically for equine health. If you have any questions or need more information, our team is here to assist. Contact us today to learn more.

This blog post aims to provide accurate and current information. However, it’s not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult with a qualified veterinary professional before making changes to your horse’s care routine.