Caring for Older Horses: Veterinary Considerations for a Healthy Senior Life

Thanks to advances in veterinary medicine, nutrition, and overall horse care, many horses are living well into their twenties and even thirties. However, just like people, ageing horses have specific health needs that require careful management. Our team are committed to helping you keep your senior companions comfortable, healthy, and thriving in their golden years. Here, James talks through some key points towards ensuring your horse has the very best senior years.

Understanding the Aging Process

Ageing affects every system in a horse’s body. Common changes include:

• Reduced digestive efficiency, leading to weight loss

• Dental wear or disease impacting their ability to chew normally

• Weakened immune function

• Joint degeneration causing stiffness or arthritis

• Increased risk of metabolic disorders like Cushing’s Disease (PPID) and Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS).

  
  

Recognising and addressing these changes early is key to ensuring your older horse enjoys a good quality of life.

Veterinary Care Essentials for Senior Horses

1. Routine Health Checks

Older horses benefit greatly from more frequent veterinary examinations - ideally every six months. These checkups allow us to monitor weight, dental health, joint function, and screen for early signs of metabolic diseases. Early detection often means easier and more successful management.

2. Dental Care

Dental problems are very common in senior horses. Sharp enamel points, wave mouth, loose or missing teeth and diastemata can make chewing painful and inefficient. Annual dental exams, and treatment, when necessary, help to maintain a healthy mouth and ensure your horse can continue eating comfortably.

3. Nutrition Management

As horses age, their digestive systems become less efficient at absorbing nutrients. Many older horses benefit from specially formulated senior feeds that are easier to chew and highly digestible. These diets help maintain weight and support vital functions. Evaluating your senior horse’s body condition score regularly is essential.

4. Joint and Mobility Support

Arthritis and stiffness are common in aging equines. There are many ways to manage joint health, including:

• Joint supplements (such as glucosamine, chondroitin, boswellia, curcumin and omega oils)

• Prescription anti-inflammatory medications when necessary

• Adjustments to exercise routines to keep them moving comfortably.

  
  

5. Metabolic Health Monitoring

Older horses are more prone to conditions like PPID and EMS. Signs can include abnormal fat deposits, excessive drinking and urinating, laminitis, or muscle wasting. Blood tests can help diagnose these conditions early, and medical management can significantly improve outcomes.

6. Parasite Control and Vaccinations

Senior horses may have a weaker immune response, making endo- and ectoparasite control and vaccinations even more critical. We'll recommend an appropriate deworming and vaccination schedule based on your horse’s age, environment, and lifestyle.

Additional Management Tips

• Shelter and Comfort: Older horses may be more sensitive to extreme weather. Ensure they have access to adequate shelter and consider the use of rugs in cold, wet conditions.

• Companionship: Social interaction remains important. Older horses often thrive with a quiet companion or herd situation that suits their energy level.

• Exercise: Regular, gentle exercise helps maintain muscle tone, joint mobility, and mental sharpness.

  
  

When to Seek Veterinary Advice

Contact us if you notice any of the following signs:

• Unexplained weight loss

• Changes in eating or drinking habits

• Increased stiffness or reluctance to move

• Changes in coat quality or delayed shedding

• Unusual behaviour or attitude changes

  
  

Prompt veterinary attention can often turn a worrying situation around quickly.

In Conclusion

Managing older horses is a rewarding journey that requires attentive, proactive care. With regular veterinary support, good nutrition, and thoughtful management, senior horses can enjoy many happy, healthy years. If you have any questions about caring for your older horse, or would like to schedule a senior wellness exam, please don’t hesitate to contact our team. We’re here to help every step of the way.