There are many products available that can help in the reduction of stress or anxiety in several animals, each of which has different properties and effects. As each species has additional requirements, there are products specifically suited to each.
Horses
Perhaps the animal with one of the most noticeable effects of stress and anxiety can be present in horses. Many are used for more than just being pets and, of course, they aren't kept in the home so experience much of their time alone or with other horses. When you take a horse out riding or even just visiting them in their stable, it can sometimes be noticed that they aren't acting as usual and there may seem to be tension in the way they act around you. Common causes of these problems can be when they have an unsettled digestive system or a lack of magnesium in their diet.
NAF Magic
NAF Magic is a supplement made up of several components which all help to reduce stress and anxiety, and improve confidence and concentration in horses. Magnesium is one of the key ingredients which is essential in a horse's diet. It can be noticed through such tells as tightness in their muscles, anxiety, excitability, or a lack of confidence. Apart from magnesium, NAF Magic contains a specially chosen blend of herbs that all contribute to better well-being. Hops have been well used in various calming products due to their ability to calm the horse down and improve their concentration, which is especially important in eventing and showing. Passion Flower is another herbal ingredient that works in conjunction with the hops to break any nervous system patterns which are causing the horse stress or anxiety.
Zylkene Equine
Another natural product which helps in reducing stress and behavioural problems in horses is Zylkene Equine. This product consists of an extracted milk protein (casein) as its primary ingredient. This has been successfully used by veterinarians on dogs and cats for many years and is included in Zylkene Equine to help horses become relaxed and overcome stressful situations. It reduces the intensity of reactions while improving their listening and concentration, making the horse more available for work and promoting their learning. Many horses will instinctively react to perceived danger by attempting to flee or responding aggressively. Any prolonged stress can produce a change in temperament, weaving, or box walking, any of which will require action to be taken for the safety of both the horse and the owner.
Dogs & Cats
For dogs and cats, different products affect their senses, rather than something they consume. Pheromones are either a single or a collection of chemicals that are picked up by an organ in between the nose and mouth, known as the vomeronasal organ. When an animal picks up certain pheromones it can alter their mood and behaviour in various ways. As a cat rubs up against your leg, as well as gains contact with you, it leaves a range of chemicals that are there to reassure the cat that you are something in the environment that is not to be feared.
Feliway
Feliway is one of these products which is aimed at cats. It is made up of a synthetic copy of the familiarisation facial pheromone that cats use to mark objects. Having this available to your cat in certain areas around the house can help to stop the cat from scratching and spraying. In various studies, it has been found that Feliway has shown a reduction in spraying which exceeds what has been achieved with drugs, without the associated risks. It is also used to familiarise a cat with its location, especially useful when moving house, changing furniture, or having building work done. By making the cat feel at home using Feliway it can reduce the stress they encounter when dealing with these situations. Feliway comes either as an aerosol spray or a diffuser.
Adaptil
Adaptil is another diffuser product which is a synthetic copy of the mothering pheromones which a mother dog releases to calm and reassure her puppies. By using this diffuser during situations like house moving, parties, going on holiday, and around fireworks night, you can help calm your dog down and stop them from exhibiting signs of stress. There may be different behaviours that you recognize in your dog, such as excessive barking, shaking, drooling, excessive licking, and hiding, which give you an idea that they are stressed and something needs to be done. These symptoms could be reduced by using adaptil to calm down your dog and get them feeling their old self again. It is also ideal for when getting a new puppy. Their first experience of being away from their mum can be quite a frightening one.
For advice on helping your pet through this year's fireworks, you can read our short fireworks blog post or more detailed knowledge base article.
Written by: Adam
