How do you treat separation anxiety in horses?

Feed him some treats, let him relax, and then return him – this should all happen within ten minutes or so. It's even better if someone else can do the same with the other horse at the same time, so that both of them have a positive distraction.


What causes separation anxiety in horses?

Separation anxiety usually arises when bonded horses are separated and are unable to touch or see each other. Horses and ponies form strong bonds with their companions, and this means that being separated, even for a short period of time, may mean they experience feelings of fear, anxiety and stress.

How do I get my horse used to being alone?

Other things to consider that may help your companion learn that being on their own is OK include:
  1. Offering them plenty of hay and/or a treat ball to help keep them occupied whilst their friend is away.
  2. Making sure they are completely used to their environment – now is not the time for field changes.


What can I give my horse for anxiety?

The first three are designed to address certain deficiencies, while the latter four are simply helpful additives.
  • Magnesium. Magnesium is a prevalent nutrient in calming supplements. ...
  • L-Tryptophan. ...
  • B Vitamins. ...
  • Ashwagandha. ...
  • Valerian Root. ...
  • Chamomile.


How do you separate attached horses?

Making the Split

The next best solution is to house the horses on opposite ends of your property, where they aren't going to see or be in contact with each other. Put another horse nearby each of the separated pair for companionship and distraction, and make the break at dinnertime when they will be focused on eating.


How To Fix Your Horse’s Separation Anxiety



Do horses get lonely without another horse?

A horse that is stressed due to a lack of companionship may show behaviours that include running around a lot (usually up and down the fence line that prevents the horse from reaching other horses) and whinnying. They may also lose weight.

How do you tell if your horse has bonded with you?

Horses are affectionate animals, once you know the signs it will be easy to notice when they show affection to those close to them.
  1. Signs of affection towards humans.
  2. Follow instructions. ...
  3. Come towards you when you are nearby. ...
  4. Turn their heads towards you. ...
  5. Follow you around. ...
  6. Being relaxed around you.


What is the best calming medicine for horses?

Top 6 Calming Supplements for Horses [Research Review]
  • Interventions.
  • Calming Supplements.
  • Magnesium.
  • Tryptophan.
  • Valerian.
  • Thiamine.
  • Alpha-casozepine.
  • Chasteberry.


How do you destress a horse?

Some good ways to reduce stress in horse performances include:
  1. Keeping a Consistent Routine. ...
  2. Ensure Proper Hydration. ...
  3. Prioritize Regular Exercise. ...
  4. Provide Hay and Water During Travel. ...
  5. Keep Them Exposed to a Consistent Temperature. ...
  6. Remember the Importance of Digestive Health.


How do you relax a stressed horse?

6 Ways to Reduce Stress in Your Horse
  1. Know your horse's herd. Horses are naturally social and contact with other horses can help to reduce stress. ...
  2. Give your horse space. ...
  3. Keep your horse's mind occupied. ...
  4. Consider your horse's temperament. ...
  5. Add variety to your horse's day. ...
  6. Give him some control.


How do you bond with an anxious horse?

Here, she's come up with seven ways to spend time with your horse.
  1. Try mutual grooming with your horse. There are many things you can learn by watching your horse. ...
  2. Try positive Reinforcement. ...
  3. Go for a walk. ...
  4. Play with your horse. ...
  5. Try agility with your horse. ...
  6. Chill out. ...
  7. Try online showing.


At what age should a horse no longer be ridden?

Some horses have physical conditions or diseases that require an early retirement. Other horses can be ridden late into their life without issues. As a general rule, most horses should stop being ridden between 20 to 25 years old. Any horse, no matter their age, still requires a decent amount of exercise.

How long can a horse go without a companion?

Remember, even under the safest and most comfortable conditions, your horse must never be left alone for more than 8-10 hours at a time.

How do you fix severe separation anxiety?

Separation anxiety disorder is usually treated with psychotherapy, sometimes along with medication. Psychotherapy, sometimes called talk therapy or psychological counseling, involves working with a therapist to reduce separation anxiety symptoms.


What are the three stages of separation anxiety?

They described an infant or young child's reaction to separation as occurring in three phases – protest, despair, then detachment. Although this theory is less popular today, it provides a framework that can help foster parents understand a child's experience.

What makes separation anxiety worse?

Risk factors may include: Life stresses or loss that result in separation, such as the illness or death of a loved one, loss of a beloved pet, divorce of parents, or moving or going away to school. Certain temperaments, which are more prone to anxiety disorders than others are.

What is a natural calmer for horses?

If the horse needs a mild calming effect, I'll typically recommend a magnesium or herbal product with tryptophan, such as Quietex or Quiessence. There are lots of combinations of other ingredients including valerian root or Thiamine/Vitamin B1. An alternative is Mare's Magic- made of raspberry leaf extract.


What are the signs of depression in horses?

Physical Signs Of Depression In Your Horse

Depressed horses frequently hold themselves lower, with their neck held level with their back in a droopy manner. They have also been noted to be immobile for long periods and their eyes are also likely to take on a glazed look as they detach from their surroundings.

How do you tell if a horse is relaxed around you?

Horses Trust You When They're At Ease Around You
  1. Their bottom lip is tight.
  2. Their nostrils are tense.
  3. Their tail is moving quickly or not at all.
  4. Their ears are pinned back on their head, or alert and facing you.


Do calming supplements really work for horses?

A few controlled studies regarding L-tryptophan show no calming effect on horses. Despite the lack of evidence form controlled studies, calming supplements are very popular and many horse trainers and owners report anecdotally that they have seen improvements in their horse's behavior and performance when using them.


What color is calming to horses?

Surround him with color

For a particularly edgy or nervous horse, simply painting the inside of his stall a soothing green or blue will help calm him. For a low-energy ungrounded steed, the color red might be most beneficial.

What kind of oils relax a horse?

There are various essential oils that are beneficial to horses, including lavender, tea tree, basil, eucalyptus, bergamot, frankincense, geranium, and chamomile. As it is for people, lavender is very calming for horses.

Why shouldn't you look a horse in the eye?

Never look a horse in the eye

You're only a predator if you intend to eat what you're looking at. Horses can easily tell the difference between a predator looking to eat and predator looking in curiosity and wonder. Horses do, however, struggle to understand the intention of a human who hides his eyes.


What not to do with a horse?

Helpful Hints to Remember
  • Do not stand directly behind the horse.
  • Never wrap the lead around your hand or body.
  • Teach your horse to be patient when being turned loose.
  • Do not allow the lead to drag on the ground.
  • Never stand, lead, or back standing directly in front of the horse.