As autumn settles in with its crisp air, cool breezes, and leaves rustling, we often revel in the season’s beauty. But our horses… well, perhaps not so much. The drop in temperature and the blustery winds may leave them feeling a bit more “frisky” than we’d prefer. This is where calming supplements come into play, helping your horse feel more at ease amidst the seasonal shifts. But with so many options available, how do you determine which calming supplement is right for your horse? By following a structured routine and choosing from our top-selling calmers, you can navigate “spooky season” more easily.
Load Up in Advance
As with your training, preparation is key. If your horse is particularly nervous or anxious, start a calming supplement several days before your travel or competition. This proactive approach promotes relaxation during the travel and training phases and allows the calming effects to build up leading into the big day. A well-timed loading dose can make all the difference, helping your horse stay calm and focused.
In this scenario, calming pellets are a common choice. Rather than feeding paste a few days in a row, this gives the option of feed-throughs to simplify the process. Many calming pellet options then have a paste formula for a perfect pairing the day of your event.
Our Top 5 Loading-Dose Calmers for the Week Before:
- Perfect Prep EQ Training Day Pellets
- Synchill Daily Pellets
- Perfect Prep EQ Gold Pellets
- Horse First RelaxMe
- Cavalor SoZen
How To Prepare For the Night Before
You’ve prepared to the max, and now it’s finally time—tomorrow is your big day! Giving your horse a calmer night before the event can have several different effects depending on the formula and ingredients. It may help them get more restful sleep, it may boost recovery if it contains amino acids, etc., and mostly, it can help you achieve an accumulated calming effect for the best results possible. For night before doses, look for something that has these added benefits, or something with long-lasting effects that will still be working the next day.
Our Top 5 Long-Lasting Calmers for the Night Before:
- Perfect Prep EQ Gold Paste
- Perfect Prep ProChill
- Cavalor Take It Easy Forte
- Perfect Prep Sane And Sound Paste
- Equine Healthcare International Equi-Calm Paste
Stop the Day-Of Jitters
And now, the day has finally come. For some horses, you may just skip the calmers in the days or nights before your event, but still want to take the edge off for competition day. Or, for particularly anxious or hot horses, you may have loading up in the days prior, and now need a final dose to get through the next few hours. For the day of your event, be sure to choose a fast-acting calmer – one that is quickly absorbed and starts working within 1-2 hours.
Our Top 5 Fast-Acting Calmers for the Day Of:
- SynNutra Synchill Paste
- Ramard Total Calm & Focus Paste
- Perfect Prep EQ Supreme
- Perfect Prep EQ Extreme
- Perfect Prep EQ Prime2
Many calmers recommend administering the night before and the day of to achieve maximum results. So, depending on the calmer you choose for the night before, you may also administer a second dose of the same calmer on the day of the event to boost the calming effects. Always be sure to follow the administration instructions for each product for the best results. By taking these steps, you’ll help ensure your horse is relaxed and ready to perform, allowing both of you to enjoy the autumn season to the fullest!
Show-Safe Disclaimer
While most of these calmers state they do not contain prohibited substances, we highly recommend that you check your respective governing body’s regulations regarding the use of any of these products during competition before purchasing.
Keep Calm and Ride On
Looking for more seasonal strategies to keep your horse happy this fall? Check out our blog on supporting your horse’s immunity during changing weather for additional tips on nutrition, wellness, and routines that make autumn easier for both of you.
Explore More from FarmVet
From calming supplements to joint support, grooming supplies, and seasonal essentials, FarmVet has everything you need to help your horse thrive year-round. Shop our full selection today and stock up on products that keep your horse relaxed, healthy, and ready to perform—no matter the season.
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