Looking After the Older Horse: Complete Care Guide

Older horses are majestic companions who, like people, deserve thoughtful care as they age. Managing their wellbeing means understanding their changing nutritional needs, health risks, and daily routine to ensure they enjoy a comfortable and happy retirement.

Recognising Age-Related Health Issues

Understanding whether a health problem in your older horse is a normal sign of ageing or a treatable illness is vital. Some symptoms, such as muscle wastage around the hindquarters and a swayback body shape, happen naturally with age and usually don't require intervention. However, other issues like recurrent laminitis, digestive upset, or behavioural changes may indicate underlying disease, such as pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID) or infections, and should be evaluated by a vet promptly for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Feeding and Weight Management

Maintaining a healthy weight in older horses can be challenging but is crucial for their wellbeing. While many elderly horses struggle to keep weight on, obesity is an equally serious concern. Before adjusting diet, it’s important to check for parasite burden with a "worm count" test, which can be arranged through your vet or reliable online services. Effective worming helps improve digestion and weight management. If weight loss persists, consult a vet or equine nutritionist to tailor a balanced diet that compensates for tooth wear and reduced digestive efficiency.

In cases of obesity, reducing hard feed and relying more on quality hay and grazing helps control calories. Most retired horses don’t require grain unless prescribed supplements are added. Always avoid sudden diet changes and monitor body condition regularly.

Dental Care by an Equine Dentist

Dental health profoundly affects older horses’ ability to eat and digest food properly. Teeth wear unevenly with age, often resulting in long and sharp incisors or loose molars that impair grazing and chewing. Soaking hay before feeding and placing it on the ground rather than hanging it in hay nets makes eating easier and increases palatability. Biannual equine dental check-ups are highly recommended to detect and manage issues like broken teeth or root abscesses early, preserving nutrition and comfort.

Managing Arthritis and Mobility

Just like humans, many senior horses develop arthritis that causes joint stiffness and reduced mobility. You may notice a shorter stride or slower movements. Appropriate regular exercise, adjusted to your horse’s comfort level and prescribed by a vet, helps maintain muscle tone and joint flexibility. Nutritional supplements aimed at joint support can also relieve discomfort. Maintaining good hoof care with regular trimming avoids exacerbating joint pain.

Vision and Sensory Changes

Age-related conditions such as cataracts are common in senior horses and may lead to partial or full vision loss. Despite this, many partially sighted horses live well with patient handling and a calm environment. Being mindful of your horse’s limitations and making adaptations at home supports their quality of life.

Everyday Care and Environment

Besides health management, older horses benefit from consistent grooming, including regular hoof picking and trimming. Keeping living areas clean and secure prevents injury and discomfort. Adjusting rugs during colder months keeps them warm without causing overheating. Pay attention to their social interactions, especially if they live with other horses, to avoid bullying which can impact feeding and wellbeing.

Conclusion

Although senior horses face several age-related challenges, informed care focused on their evolving needs can provide a comfortable, fulfilling life in their golden years. Regular veterinary consultations, tailored feeding, careful exercise plans, and diligent dental and hoof care combine to create a supportive environment where your older horse can thrive.