Check the teeth of an aging horse

Horses' teeth wear down over their lifetime. As a horse ages, more dental problems may arise, causing them to have difficulty chewing and therefore lose weight. It is important for all horses to have their teeth checked annually, but especially for older horses. Loose teeth, excessive tartar, diastemas (spaces between the teeth), or the condition EOTRH can cause discomfort, leading to decreased food intake by the horse. In some cases, it may be necessary to adjust the diet, such as providing senior mash and hay that the horse can easily eat. Pay close attention to older horses to see if they develop food wads (chewed food that is spit out), lose weight, or take longer to eat. These are signs that indicate a change in the teeth.

The nutritional needs of an older horse change

The nutritional needs of an aging horse change. Older horses require a different ratio of calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium than young horses. They also have an increased need for zinc and selenium. Since older horses often have difficulty eating roughage, they may become deficient in vitamin B and K more quickly. Older horses struggling to maintain weight often benefit from increased protein intake.

Muscle building is more challenging in older horses

Aging horses lose muscle mass more easily and struggle more to build muscle. Therefore, it is important to adjust the diet to include more (and high-quality) proteins. Pea protein or feed specifically formulated for older horses can help maintain muscle mass. On average, an older horse needs about 14% more protein. Essential amino acids such as tryptophan, lysine, and threonine are crucial for preserving muscle mass.

Digestion is less efficient in an older horse

As horses age, their ability to digest food and absorb nutrients decreases. This is why older horses have an increased need for protein, energy, vitamins, and minerals. Adult horses can produce vitamin C in the liver from glucose, but this production decreases in older horses as the liver function declines.

Since the digestive function of older horses decreases, they are more prone to colic and dietary changes. Additionally, older horses may not process large amounts of sugars well, increasing the risk of metabolic diseases with high sugar intake.

PPID in older horses

20-30% of horses older than 15 years develop PPID (also known as Cushing's disease). PPID is a hormonal disorder regulated by the pituitary gland. Horses with PPID are more susceptible to laminitis and have difficulty regulating their body temperature.

Joint wear comes with age

Arthritis is one of the most common age-related conditions in horses. Arthritis is a painful joint condition that can occur in all joints. While it can occur at any age, it is more prevalent in older horses due to cartilage loss and decreased joint fluid quality.

Horses are very good at hiding discomfort; if they show signs of pain or discomfort, there may be a serious issue. Arthritis cannot be cured, but it is possible to maintain good cartilage health. It is advisable to start supplementing with silicon early on, as it is the building block of all connective tissue. Silicon stimulates the body's production of natural glucosamine. By starting silicon early, the onset (or worsening) of arthritis can be delayed.

Additionally, cannabinoids have a very positive effect on arthritis when combined with silicon. Cannabinoids have pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory properties and help restore balance in the body.

For horses with joint wear, it is essential to find a balance between adequate rest and exercise. While too much rest can lead to stiffness, excessive movement can have a negative impact. If your horse has arthritis, provide plenty of free movement and ensure they stay warm. These horses may have some stiffness initially, but they may move more smoothly once warmed up.

Overall immunity decreases

Aging horses have more difficulty maintaining their immune system. They are more susceptible to weather changes and infections. Therefore, support your horse when necessary to maintain a strong immune system. Older horses often benefit from detoxification to eliminate toxins and improve nutrient absorption. However, be cautious with detox if your horse has liver problems or a weakened immune system. Detoxification requires a lot of energy from a horse, so only do it when the horse is in good condition.

Conclusion

Depending on how your older horse feels, it is essential to make adjustments. Keep a close eye on your horse and intervene if you notice any changes. Schedule a dental or veterinary appointment if your horse is losing weight or having difficulty eating. Review the diet to ensure your horse is getting enough vitamin C, phosphorus, and proteins. Consider consulting a nutritionist to analyze the diet.

How does your horse feel during work? Is it becoming stiff or occasionally irregular? This could be a sign of (early) arthritis. It is recommended to supplement older horses with silicon. Start early to maintain the production of glucosamine.

Do not strictly adhere to the 15-year-old limit for an older horse. Each horse is different and should be treated as an individual.