Just like people, horses experience changes as they age, and those changes require a shift in how we care for them. If you’re the owner of an aging equine, you likely already know that their nutritional, medical, and activity needs evolve over time. Whether your horse is slowing down after years of riding or remains active in light work, senior horse care is essential for maintaining their health and quality of life.
At Brazos Valley Equine Hospital, our team of experienced equine veterinarians is committed to helping owners make the best decisions for their older horses. In this guide, we’re breaking down the top three areas to focus on when caring for your senior horse: feed recommendations, preventative care, and exercise. With the right approach, you can help your aging equine thrive well into their golden years.
Feed Recommendations for Older Horses
As horses age, their ability to digest and absorb nutrients often declines. Older horses may lose weight more easily, develop dental issues, or struggle to maintain muscle tone. That’s why nutrition is one of the most important components of aging horse care.
What should you feed an older horse?
- Senior feeds: Specially formulated senior feeds are designed to be more digestible and nutrient-rich. These often contain higher fiber, fat, and protein content to support weight maintenance and muscle health.
- Softened feeds: If your horse has dental problems or difficulty chewing, consider soaking pelleted feed or hay cubes to create a mash. This makes it easier to eat and reduces the risk of choking.
- Forage alternatives: Older horses may have trouble chewing hay, so high-quality hay alternatives like beet pulp, chopped hay, or hay pellets can help.
- Vitamin and mineral supplements: Depending on your horse’s diet and condition, a vet-recommended supplement can fill any nutritional gaps.
A consultation with an equine veterinarian is crucial when making changes to your horse’s diet. The BVEH team can help you evaluate your horse’s condition and build a tailored feeding plan to support their long-term health.
Preventative Care Is a Must
Preventive care becomes even more important as horses age. Early detection of health problems and consistent management can extend your horse’s life and comfort.
Key aspects of preventative care for aging equines include:
- Regular veterinary checkups: Schedule biannual or annual wellness exams to monitor your horse’s overall health, catch signs of disease early, and adjust care as needed.
- Vaccinations: Older horses may have a weaker immune system, making vaccines even more essential. Your equine veterinarian will recommend a vaccination schedule tailored to your horse’s lifestyle and risk level.
- Dental exams: Aging horses often develop dental issues like uneven wear, missing teeth, or sharp points. Routine dental checks (at least once a year) help ensure they can chew comfortably and avoid digestive problems.
- Parasite control: Senior horses may be more susceptible to parasites, so regular reviews of fecal exams and deworming strategies are recommended.
- Hoof care: Just because your older horse may be working less doesn’t mean their hooves need less attention. Routine trims help maintain mobility and comfort.
Preventive care is the cornerstone of healthy aging in horses. Our equine veterinarians work closely with horse owners to develop individualized wellness plans for older horses, ensuring they receive the care and monitoring they need.
Keep Moving: The Role of Exercise
Exercise is essential, even for older horses. While your aging equine may not be galloping across pastures anymore, regular movement is critical for maintaining joint function, muscle tone, and mental health.
Best practices for exercising older horses:
- Light, consistent work: Activities such as walking, trail rides, or light groundwork can be highly beneficial without overexerting aging joints.
- Tailored routines: Every older horse is different. Pay attention to your horse’s energy levels, comfort, and any stiffness. Adjust intensity and duration accordingly.
- Warm-up and cool-down: A proper warm-up helps loosen joints and muscles, while a cool-down aids recovery and reduces soreness.
- Monitor for discomfort: Watch for signs of arthritis or lameness. If your horse shows reluctance to move, it may be time to consult your equine veterinarian.
Keeping older horses active helps preserve mobility, prevent stiffness, and promote overall well-being. Even if they’re retired from competition, they still benefit immensely from gentle daily movement.
Helping Your Older Horse Thrive
Caring for older horses requires a thoughtful and proactive approach that prioritizes nutrition, preventive healthcare, and regular exercise. By making these key areas a priority, you can significantly improve your aging equine’s comfort, health, and longevity.
If you’re unsure how to get started or need a health checkup for your senior horse, schedule a wellness exam today with Brazos Valley Equine Hospital. Our dedicated team of equine veterinarians is experienced in all aspects of senior horse care and can provide expert guidance tailored to your horse’s unique needs.
