Understanding Mare Moodiness: From Mare Stare Into Mare Care with Holistic Options
- stephanie pope
- Mar 31
- 11 min read
If you’ve ever been on the receiving end of the “mare stare,” you know exactly what I’m talking about. That icy glare that seems to say, “Excuse me, human, but I am royalty, and your presence is currently... tolerated.” Mares have a reputation for serving up sass on a silver platter, complete with side-eye and the occasional dramatic head toss for emphasis. But is it really just attitude, or is there something more going on behind those expressive eyes?
The truth is, while it’s easy to label mares as moody, cranky, or downright diva-like, there’s usually a reason behind their occasional temperamental outbursts. Hormones, discomfort, stress, or even something as simple as a poor saddle fit can trigger what we lovingly refer to as mare stare. And just like people, some mares are more emotionally sensitive than others.
So, what’s a mare owner to do when faced with the equine embodiment of “don’t talk to me until I’ve had my alfalfa”? The key is finding a balanced approach that addresses both physical and emotional wellbeing. From veterinary care and supplements to gentle, holistic therapies like acupressure, there’s a lot we can do to help our mares feel their best – and maybe even reduce the frequency of that iconic mare stare.
What is the "Mare Stare"?
Ah, the “mare stare.” It’s a look so powerful it could curdle milk, melt hearts, or stop you dead in your tracks, depending on her mood. You know the one – ears laid back, eyes narrowed just enough to make you question all your life choices, and a posture that screams, “You dare to disturb my royal highness?”
But why do mares sometimes seem so, well, grumpy? The truth is, their fiery personalities often get them labeled as difficult or uncooperative, but it’s rarely just bad behavior. Mares are complex creatures, with a tendency to be more expressive about their feelings than their gelding counterparts. Their moodiness can be tied to hormonal fluctuations, discomfort, environmental changes, or even just plain frustration if something isn’t going their way.
Every mare owner has a story – like the time she decided the mounting block was her mortal enemy or when she gave you the stink-eye for daring to change her favorite feed. Or how about those days when she absolutely refuses to cooperate during groundwork, leaving you wondering if you’re training her or if she’s training you?
The mare stare is usually her way of telling you something’s up. Maybe she’s sore, stressed, or just plain tired of your nonsense. It’s not always easy to figure out what’s causing the attitude, but understanding there’s usually a reason behind the sass is the first step to helping her feel better. And believe it or not, once you start listening to what she’s trying to tell you, that iconic mare stare might just soften into something a little sweeter.
Common Causes of Mare Moodiness
Now that we’ve established the power of the “mare stare,” let’s dive into what’s really behind those withering glances and dramatic hair flips. Contrary to popular belief, most mares aren’t just trying to ruin your day for fun. They’re often responding to something deeper, whether it’s physical discomfort, emotional sensitivity, or the natural ebb and flow of their hormonal cycles.
Hormonal Changes:
Let’s be honest, hormones can make anyone feel a little off their game. For mares, this can mean irritability, sensitivity, or even outright crankiness – especially during heat cycles. It’s not just moodiness; hormonal fluctuations can cause actual discomfort, making your normally sweet mare seem like she’s been replaced by a fire-breathing dragon.
Physical Discomfort:
Sometimes, moodiness is more about pain than personality. Physical issues like ovarian pain, muscle stiffness, poor saddle fit with back pain, ulcers, or dental problems (like TMJ) can leave your mare feeling miserable. If she’s not feeling 100%, she’s going to let you know about it – usually with that signature mare stare or some equally dramatic antics.
Environmental Factors:
Stressful surroundings, limited turnout, changes in routine, or even something as small as a new pasture buddy can throw your mare’s mood out of whack. Some mares are just a little more particular about their living arrangements and day-to-day experiences. You know, like when she suddenly decides she hates her stall neighbor and gives him dirty looks every time he even breathes.
Emotional Sensitivity:
Mares are often more sensitive and expressive than geldings, and while that makes them incredibly responsive partners, it also means they’re more likely to show their displeasure when something isn’t quite right. If your mare’s emotional needs aren’t being met – whether it’s a lack of socialization, inconsistent handling, or just not enough love and attention – you’re going to hear about it. Loudly.
The bottom line? Your mare’s moodiness isn’t just her being dramatic. It’s her way of communicating that something needs to change. And that’s where we step in to help her feel like her best self.
Veterinary Recommendations and Treatments for Mares
When your mare’s attitude feels more like a roller coaster than a pleasure ride, it’s worth considering what the experts have to say. After all, there’s only so much glaring and foot-stomping you can take before you start wondering if it’s more than just personality.
Veterinarians are often the first line of defense when trying to figure out what’s behind a moody mare’s antics. Here are some of the most common recommendations:
Hormone Therapy or Supplements:
If your mare’s moodiness is tied to her heat cycles, your vet may suggest hormone therapy to help regulate her cycles and reduce irritability. This can include injectable hormones, oral medications, or hormone-releasing devices. It’s not about turning her into a gelding, but rather about helping her feel more comfortable and balanced.
Pain Relief and Physical Assessment:
If discomfort is the culprit, your vet might recommend pain relief options or physical therapy. They may also check for underlying issues like ovarian pain, ulcers, dental problems, or musculoskeletal discomfort. Identifying and treating these issues can make a world of difference in your mare’s attitude.
Dental Checkups and Saddle Fit Assessments:
Sometimes the problem is as simple as a poorly fitting saddle or dental pain making her grumpy. Regular dental checks and ensuring your tack fits properly can prevent pain-related moodiness from turning into a regular feature of her personality.
Diet and Nutritional Adjustments:
In some cases, dietary changes can make a difference in your mare’s overall health and mood. Deficiencies or imbalances can contribute to irritability and general discomfort. Your vet may suggest dietary supplements or tweaks to her feed regimen to promote better health and emotional stability.
The good news? You don’t have to just rely on traditional treatments. When combined with holistic approaches like acupressure, your mare may start giving you fewer dirty looks and more of those soft, contented sighs.
How Acupressure Can Help Balance Your Mare’s Emotions
So, you’ve tried the vet’s advice, experimented with supplements, and yet, your mare is still throwing you the occasional side-eye. Enter: Acupressure – a gentle, holistic approach that taps into your mare’s natural energy pathways to bring about emotional balance and physical wellness.
Acupressure has been used for centuries to help regulate energy flow in the body, promoting relaxation and enhancing overall well-being. For moody mares, it’s like hitting the “reset” button on their emotional state – and no, it doesn’t require any mystical powers, just a little knowledge and a lot of love.
Why Acupressure Works for Moodiness
Acupressure works by stimulating specific points along the body’s meridians – energy pathways that can become blocked or unbalanced. When a mare’s energy flow is disrupted, it can manifest as irritability, anxiety, or other mood-related issues. By applying gentle pressure to key points, you can help restore balance and improve her overall emotional state.
But it’s not just about calming her mood. Acupressure also helps address physical discomfort that may be contributing to her sass. Because, let’s face it, we all get a little cranky when something hurts.
Key Acupressure Points to Target for Moodiness
Liver Meridian (LIV 3 - Great Rushing):
Located on the front inside of the cannon bone just at the top of the medial splint bone.
This point helps promote emotional balance and soothes irritability. It’s particularly effective when your mare seems edgy, tense, or easily frustrated.
Pericardium Meridian (PC 6 - Inner Gate):
Found on the foreleg, in front and middle of the chestnut.
Great for calming anxiety and reducing stress. It’s also useful if your mare gets worked up or overly emotional about certain situations.
Spleen Meridian (SP 6 - Three Yin Crossing):
Located on the inside of the hind leg, about four fingers above the point of the hock, behind the saphenous vein.
Helps with irregular estrus, urinary incontinence, digestive issues and balancing overall energy.
How to Apply Acupressure
Find the Points: Take your time to locate each point accurately.
Apply Gentle Pressure: Use your thumb or fingertips to apply light, consistent pressure.
Hold for 1-2 Minutes: Breathe deeply and maintain calm energy.
Release Slowly: Remove your hand gradually to avoid startling your mare.
Observe Your Mare’s Response: Some mares will relax immediately, while others may need a few sessions to feel the full effect.
Benefits of Acupressure for Your Mare’s Mood
Encourages emotional balance by unblocking stagnant energy.
Promotes relaxation and calms anxiety.
Reduces physical discomfort that may be contributing to moodiness.
Provides a gentle, non-invasive approach that complements other treatments.
Acupressure can be a game-changer when it comes to handling those dramatic mood swings and sassy glares. It offers a natural, non-invasive way to help balance your mare’s emotions and improve her overall well-being. And best of all, it helps strengthen the bond between you and your mare – one acupressure session at a time.
Want to learn how to support your mare’s emotional health through acupressure? Enroll in our Online Equine Acupressure Course! This self-paced, comprehensive course will guide you through everything you need to know to effectively use acupressure to help your mare feel her best. Sign up now and start your journey toward a happier, more balanced mare.
Popular Supplements for Mare Moodiness
If you’ve spent any amount of time around a mare with a penchant for sass, you’ve probably heard of – or even tried – some of the most popular supplements aimed at smoothing out those mood swings. Because when your mare is on a mood roller coaster, sometimes a little extra help can go a long way.
CBD Oil:
Ah, CBD, the miracle supplement that’s been taking the animal wellness world by storm. Many horse owners swear by it for its calming and relaxing effects. CBD oil can help your mare feel more at ease, reducing anxiety and promoting a more balanced mood. It’s especially useful for mares who seem to be stuck in a state of high alert or who are overly sensitive to their surroundings.
Why It Works: CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, helping regulate mood, pain, and overall emotional stability. It’s not a sedative, so your mare will still be herself – just maybe not as likely to throw you that “how dare you?” look when you show up for a ride.
Mare Magic (Raspberry Leaf):
If you’ve hung around a tack shop or scrolled through equestrian forums, you’ve definitely heard of Mare Magic. This popular herbal supplement contains raspberry leaf, known for its calming properties. It’s particularly effective for mares with moodiness linked to their heat cycles or general hormonal fluctuations.
Why It Works: Raspberry leaf has muscle-relaxing and soothing qualities, which can help take the edge off of hormonal moodiness. It’s gentle, natural, and doesn’t leave your mare feeling groggy or sluggish. Plus, it’s affordable and easy to add to her daily feed.
Other Herbal Supplements:
It’s not just CBD and raspberry leaf that can help. There are other herbs like chamomile, valerian root, and magnesium supplements that have calming properties and can be helpful for particularly feisty mares.
Why They Work:These herbs support relaxation and emotional balance without causing drowsiness. They can be used on their own or in combination with other treatments to create a more harmonious emotional state.
Finding the Right Supplement:
It’s important to remember that not every supplement works for every mare. Some respond better to CBD, while others thrive on Mare Magic or other herbal blends. It may take some experimenting to find what suits your mare best. And of course, it’s always a good idea to check with your vet before starting a new supplement.
With the right approach, you might just find your mare looking at you with a little more kindness and a lot less glare.
Combining Therapies for Your Sassy Mare
So, you’ve got a moody mare on your hands, and you’re ready to pull out all the stops to help her feel more balanced and less like a fire-breathing dragon. The good news? You don’t have to choose between conventional treatments, supplements, and acupressure. In fact, combining these approaches often delivers the best results.
Holistic wellness isn’t about replacing your vet’s advice or ditching your go-to supplements. It’s about enhancing your mare’s overall well-being by making sure all her needs – physical, emotional, and energetic – are addressed. Think of it as your secret recipe for turning down the sass and dialing up the chill.
Creating a Comprehensive Wellness Plan
Instead of trying one thing and waiting to see if it works, why not combine the best of each world? Here’s how:
Step 1: Consult Your Vet - Start with a thorough examination to rule out underlying health issues like pain, discomfort, or reproductive concerns. This will also give you a baseline for your mare’s physical health, so you can measure improvement over time.
Step 2: Add Supplements Where Needed - If your vet approves, try incorporating CBD oil, Mare Magic, or other calming herbs to help smooth out those hormonal or anxiety-related mood swings. Every mare is different, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different options to find what works best for her.
Step 3: Incorporate Acupressure - Regular acupressure sessions can do wonders for your mare’s emotional balance and overall comfort. The key points mentioned earlier – Liver 3, Pericardium 6, and Spleen 6 – can all play a crucial role in calming irritability, releasing stress, and promoting a more relaxed state of mind.
Step 4: Adjust the Environment - Take a look at her daily routine. Is she getting enough turnout? Is her living space comfortable and stress-free? Sometimes even small changes can make a big difference in your mare’s overall mood.
Step 5: Consistency is Key - Whether it’s supplements, acupressure, or simply making sure her saddle fits correctly, consistency is everything. Make it part of your regular routine and observe her response over time.
When to Expect Results
Just like people, mares don’t always change their moods overnight. It might take a few weeks of acupressure and supplements to see noticeable improvements. But the effort is worth it when you realize your mare is happier, more comfortable, and far less likely to give you that dreaded mare stare.
Embrace the Sass (Just a Little)
Let’s be honest, the sass is part of her charm. The goal isn’t to eliminate her personality, but rather to make sure that her dramatic side isn’t due to discomfort or emotional imbalance. Because at the end of the day, we love our mares for exactly who they are – attitude and all.
Conclusion: Turning the Mare Stare Into Mare Care
Living with a moody mare is both a challenge and a privilege. Sure, there’s the dramatic side-eye, the diva-worthy tantrums, and the occasional day where she seems determined to prove you’re the worst human alive. But there’s also the brilliance, the partnership, and the undeniable bond that comes with earning the respect and trust of such a powerful, intelligent creature.
Understanding the root of your mare’s moodiness is the first step toward helping her feel her best. Whether it’s hormones throwing her off balance, physical discomfort making her grumpy, or just plain emotional sensitivity, there’s a solution out there. And sometimes, it’s about combining multiple approaches – veterinary care, supplements, acupressure, and a whole lot of patience.
Acupressure offers a gentle and effective way to support your mare’s emotional well-being. When paired with the right supplements, veterinary advice, and a little creativity, it can make a real difference in her mood and comfort. Plus, the time you spend working with her through acupressure can strengthen your bond and bring out the best in her personality.
And who knows? With a little love and effort, maybe she’ll start replacing the infamous “mare stare” with a softer, more relaxed look – one that says, “Okay, maybe you’re not so bad after all.”
