Would you like to switch to the accessible version of this site?

Go to accessible site Close modal window

Don't need the accessible version of this site?

Hide the accessibility button Close modal window
Accessibility View Close toolbar

Call Us Today

425-891-0735

redrockequine@gmail.com

  • Home
  • About Us
  • Meet Dr. Rothschild
  • Our Services
  • Our Policies and Payment Options
  • Client Resources
    • New Client Registration Form
  • Online Forms
  • Contact Us
  • Testimonials
  • Home >
  • Articles >
  • Newsletter Library >
  • Anxiety in Horses

Anxiety in Horses

Hand on horse

How You Can Help Your Anxious Horse

Anxiety is a common problem in horses. Some startle easy and constantly seem on edge, while other horses only experience anxiety in certain situations. Whether anxiety is an infrequent or constant issue, these six tips can help you calm your anxious horse.

Ask the Equine Veterinarian to Pay a Visit to Your Stable

Anxiety, particularly if it starts suddenly, may be related to a health ailment. Sores, lameness, decayed teeth, arthritis, stomach ulcers, arthritis, tendon injuries, and other health issues may be to blame for equine anxiety. Painful conditions can worsen slowly, eventually causing considerable pain. Despite the discomfort, your horse may carry on as usual and show no outward signs of a problem.

Worsening vision may also be a factor in anxiety. Your horse may become understandably skittish if it can't see obstacles clearly or if it's unable to see people or animals until they're much too close.

If your horse has suddenly become jumpy, it's a good idea to rule out health conditions or poor vision as the first step in treating anxiety.

Use the Buddy System

As herd animals, horses prefer to live, work, and play with other horses. The herd provides a sense of safety and stability while also offering plenty of opportunities for socialization. When horses don't have the support of a herd, they may become anxious or depressed.

If separation anxiety seems to be your horse's problem, consider moving grooming, training, and other chores outdoor to the pasture. Horses that have separation anxiety may feel calmer if they can remain with the herd as much as possible. As your horse becomes more comfortable and confident, gradually increase its distance from other horses during training or grooming sessions.

Avoid Sudden Changes to the Routine

Like people, horses become accustomed to following a particular schedule and may become anxious if their routine changes. If possible, feed, turn out, and groom your horses at the same time every day. When changes are unavoidable, introduce them gradually.

If you need to move your horse to a newly built stable on your property, make an introductory visit a day or two before the move. The visit will give your horse time to get used to the sight and smells of its new home before actually moving. Give new horses plenty of time to adjust to their surroundings before training or riding them.

Evaluate Your Tack

Sometimes anxiety can be traced to simple discomfort. If a saddle, girth, or bit pinches or no longer fit comfortably, your horse may be reluctant to be ridden or even led.

Fit problems aren't always obvious. An uneven sweat pattern on the underside of a saddle can be one sign of a fit issue. If you're not sure how to evaluate a proper fit, it's a good idea to bring in a saddle fitter.

An experienced fitter can recommend good tack options based on your horse's body type and rider preferences. The Horse recommends working with a veterinarian, farrier in addition to a saddle fitter, as hoof issues and anatomical problems could affect your horse's gait and cause the saddle to shift.

Apply Aids Consistently

Your horse may become anxious if you're not consistent in the way you use aids. The pressure of your leg or the bit gives your horse important information about what to do next. If you don't use the same amount of pressure all of the time or don't release pressure promptly after your horse responds to a command, your horse may become confused and unsure.

If you think this might be the issue, a few retraining sessions for you and your horse may be helpful. Professional trainers can help you spot subtle problems that may be contributing to your horse's inability to decipher the meaning of aids.

Give Your Horse More Time to Exercise

Does your horse spend much of the day confined to a stall or tiny pasture? Without enough exercise, your horse may become bored and anxious. Long rides or access to large pastures can help burn off excess energy and reduce anxiety.

Is your horse struggling with anxiety? We can help you determine the cause and offer a few suggestions. Contact our office to schedule a visit to your stable.

Sources:

The Horse: My Saddle Doesn't Fit My Horse...Now What?, 6/27/18

Your Horse Magazine: Separation Anxiety in Horses, 9/14/16

The Horse: Managing the Anxious Horse, 2/5/16

Equus: Calming the Anxious Horse, 4/28/20

No article settings found. Please configure it

No form settings found. Please configure it.
  • For Veterinarians

    We promise to work provide you, your client and patient with the highest ethical standards, the best customer service and excellence in veterinary medical services.

    Veterinarian Referral Form
  • What do we do?

    We strive to provide the most up-to-date and caring veterinary services to horses of all categories weather the fancy performance or the family pet horse.

    Our Services

Monday:

9:00 AM-5:00 PM

Tuesday:

9:00 AM-5:00 PM

Wednesday:

9:00 AM-5:00 PM

Thursday:

9:00 AM-5:00 PM

Friday:

9:00 AM-5:00 PM

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Our Coverage Area

Approximately 40 min from Headquarters

    No testimonials found. Please add

Articles for Horse Owners

Dozens of articles are available here to help you understand what is going on with your horse... New Articles are added every few days.

  • Managing Equine Asthma

    Does your horse have equine asthma? These tips will help you relieve asthma symptoms. ...

    Read More
  • Your Senior Horse and Exercising

    Do you know how much exercise your older horse needs? ...

    Read More
  • Horseback Riding in the Winter

    Are you planning to ride your horse this winter? Check out these safety tips. ...

    Read More
  • Your Winter Horse Care Checklist

    How prepared is your horse for winter weather? ...

    Read More
  • Anxiety in Horses

    Are you worried about your anxious horse? Try a few of these suggestions. ...

    Read More
  • Pregnancy in Horses

    Is your horse pregnant? A little extra care and attention will help keep your mare healthy during the pregnancy. ...

    Read More
  • How to Treat Eye Infections in Horses

    Do you know the signs of an eye infection in your horse? ...

    Read More
  • Caring For Your Horse in Hot Weather

    Improving your horse's comfort during hot, humid days can be as simple as following these tips. ...

    Read More
  • Your Horse's Night Vision

    Can your horse see better at night than you can? ...

    Read More
  • The Importance of Horseshoes for Your Horse

    Are you thinking about removing your horse's shoes? Learn why going barefoot may not be the best choice. ...

    Read More

Newsletter Signup

Payment is expected at the time of service

We accept credit cards, cash, checks and CareCredit

No social media links found. Please configure it