OLDER HORSES NEED SPECIAL CARE & NUTRITION

     With all the improvements in nutrition, management and health care, horses are living longer, more useful lives.   Horses are living well into their 20's, 30's, and even 40's.  By providing proper care and nutrition, you can help make your horse's golden years happier and more productive.

THE AGING PROCESS

      Time takes its toll on many body systems.  The horse's digestive tract isn't as efficient as it once was.  Bones and joints are less resilient.  Elderly horses may feel the aches and pains of arthritis.  The immune system is less reliable, making older horses more susceptible to illness, and slower to recover from both disease and injury. Parasites infestations also take a heavy toll.  Aged horses are more prone to respiratory, eye and mouth problems.Senior horses are also less able to cope with environmental stresses and hormonal changes may affect overall body conditions, hair growth, appetite and energy levels.  While some signs of decline may be directly related to the aging process, others may have an underlying medical problem so be sure to consult with your veterinarian.

SPECIAL NUTRITIONAL NEEDS

          Proper nutrition is vital to the older horses.  As horses age, their digestive systems become less efficient.  Hormonal and metabolic changes affect or interfere with their ability to digest, absorb and utilize essential nutrients in their feed....especially protein, phosphorus and fiber.  Because of this, many older horses benefit from complete rations that are specially formulated to compensate for changes in their digestive physiology.

When selecting feeds you can evaluate your choice by the following criteria:

• Highly palatable

• Easy to chew and swallow

• Clean and dust free to prevent or lessen impact of allergies and lung disease.

• Provide 12-16% protein.

• Contain enough high fiber to aid digestion/

• Provides essential minerals, including calcium and phosphorus in proper ratio.

• Provides enough readily available energy to maintain proper body condition.  

DENTAL CARE

     A horse that can chew its feed properly will waste less and get more nutrient value from it.  He will also be less likely to choke or colic.  Your veterinarian should examine an/or float your horse's teeth at least once a year....twice annually if the horse is over 20.

TOTAL MANAGEMENT

     You may think that turning your old timer out to pasture is the kindest form of retirement.  However, horses are individuals.....some enjoy being idle while others prefer to be a part of the action.  Do not abandon the horse.  Develop a total management plan for your senior horse while keeping in mind the following guidelines:

• Provide a safe, comfortable environment.  Free of hazards and with adequate shelter from the elements.

• Arrange for routine dental care at least once per year.

• Watch for changes in body condition, behavior and attitude.  

• Feed a high quality diet.  Avoid dusty or moldy feeds.

• Feed your horse away from younger, more aggressive ones so it won't have to compete for feed.

• For horses having trouble chewing, wet the feed to soften it or add enough water to make a thick soup-like ration the horse can drink.

• Feed at more frequent intervals so as not to upset the digestive system.  2-3 times daily is the best.

• Provide plenty of fresh, clean water.  

• Provide adequate, appropriate exercise to maintain muscle tone, flexibility and mobility.

• Be vigilant in controlling pests and parasites  Deworm at regular intervals.

• Provide regular hoof care to prevent lameness and injuries.

• Groom your horse frequently to promote circulation and skin health.

• Look for any unusual lumps or growths from head to tail.

• Provide adequate ventilation in barns.  Reduce dust as much as possible t prevent respiratory distress.

• Schedule routine checkups with your veterinarian.

     A quick response to ailments, injuries or a decline in fitness can keep your older horse from having a serious or prolonged setback.  This means less worry for you and a better quality of life for your old friend.

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