Frequently Asked Questions
What is StressLess®?
StressLess® is an all-natural, veterinarian-developed supplement designed to promote calmness and focus in horses. It helps manage stress in high-pressure situations such as training, showing, racing, or travel. Formulated without herbs or preservatives, StressLess® uses casein, a protein derived from cow’s milk, which has been scientifically shown to reduce anxiety and improve mental clarity in horses, dogs, cats, and even humans.
How does StressLess® work?
The key ingredient in StressLess® is casein hydrolysate, a naturally occurring protein found in milk. Casein is extracted through an enzymatic process, similar to how cottage cheese is made, which ensures no chemicals are involved. Once ingested, casein interacts with the horse’s brain to reduce stress responses, such as agitation or excitability, while allowing the horse to stay alert, focused, and ready to perform.
Is StressLess® safe for my horse?
Yes! StressLess® is 100% natural and non-addictive. It contains no herbs, preservatives, or lactose, and it doesn’t cause side effects like drowsiness or impaired motor skills. This means your horse will remain energetic and focused without feeling sluggish or lethargic. StressLess® is safe for long-term or short-term use and is suitable for horses of all ages.
What situations is StressLess® most effective for?
StressLess® is especially useful for horses in stressful environments or undergoing behavioral changes. Some ideal situations include:
- Competitions and shows
- Traveling
- Medical procedures
- Prolonged stall rest
- Relocating or introducing horses to new environments
- General nervousness or anxiety during training
How do I use StressLess®?
To begin, feed your horse four scoops per day mixed with grain. After two weeks, you can adjust the dosage based on your horse’s behavior and stress levels. Most owners find that two scoops per day is enough to maintain calmness after the initial loading phase. If a high-stress event is coming up, increase to four scoops daily starting five days beforehand.
How quickly will I see results?
Most horses respond to StressLess® within five days to two weeks. For the best results, continue using it for at least one full month before evaluating your horse’s progress. The fast-acting formula has been shown to benefit 75% of horses in a relatively short period.
What are the active and inactive ingredients in StressLess®?
The active ingredient in StressLess® is casein hydrolysate, a protein proven to promote calmness in animals. Casein hydrolysate is made by breaking down casein protein, which is found in milk, into smaller proteins called casein peptides. Casein hydrolysate is comprised of 4 separate proteins. These four types are denoted αs1-, αs2-, β- and κ-casein, which differ in primary structure and type. The casein hydrolysate in StressLess contains all 4 of these proteins, and provides a source of many essential amino acids needed by the body to maintain proper function, including glutamate and glutamic acid, proline, leucine, and lysine.
The inactive ingredients include maltodextrin, silica, modified food starch, natural and artificial flavors, citric acid, and malic acid, which contribute to the product’s stability and flavor.
Please note that casein hydrolysate is different than Alpha-casozepine. Tryptic hydrolysis of the alpha-S1 casein specifically, during the manufacturing process, produces a decapeptide which fits into a segment of the GABA-B receptor thought to be responsible for anxiolytic activity. This decapeptide is known as alpha-casozepine.
Is casein hydrolysate on the FEI banned substance list?
FEI defines banned substances as “substances that have been deemed by the FEI to have no legitimate use in equine medicine and / or have a high potential for abuse (e.g., human antidepressants, antipsychotics, nervous system stimulants, etc.). These simply should not be found in any horse at any level at any time.”
Our active ingredient, casein hydrolysate, is not listed on the FEI banned substances list; however, we recommend referring to your showing organization’s rule book and prohibited / banned substances list prior to usage.
Visit https://inside.fei.org/fei/cleansport/ad-h/prohibited-db for more information and to access the FEI Prohibited Substances Database Library and References.
How long does one tub of StressLess® last?
StressLess® comes in 8.82 oz tubs, which provide up to 2 months of supplementation, depending on your horse’s dosage. The product is easy to store and should be kept in a cool, dry place for optimal results.
Will StressLess® impact my horse’s motor skills?
No, StressLess® is specifically designed to reduce stress without affecting your horse’s motor function or energy levels. Your horse will remain focused, energetic, and ready to perform at its best, making it a perfect solution for both competitive and leisure riding.