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Text Box: Due to advancements in equine nutrition, veterinary medicine, dental care and worming practices, more and more horses are reaching senior-citizen age. Folks who plan to keep a horse into its golden years, should be prepared to manage the health effects of its increasing age. One of the first questions horse folks have is, “How old is old?” There’s not a cut and dried answer. Just as in humans, the effect of aging varies by individual. Some 25-year-old horses may still be active and rideable; while some 18-year-olds may experience serious age-related issues. Age alone should not determine retirement or special management. If the horse is in good body condition, healthy and active - even at 20+ years, don’t change the routine. On the other hand, if you notice your aged horse having difficulties, it may be time for special care. What Happens to the Aging Horse? As with all creatures, as a horse ages, its body systems slow down. As your horse ages you will notice that

Text Box: bones and joints are less resilient. The immune system is less reliable. The horse is slower to recover from both disease and injury. Parasite infestations may take a heavy toll. Aged horses are more prone to respiratory, eye and mouth problems. An older horse is also less able to cope with environmental stresses, such as wind, wet and cold. And hormonal changes may affect overall body condition, hair growth, appetite and energy levels. To help a senior-aged horse live a comfortable life, be aware of these changes and keep a close eye on your aging friend. Weight Loss/Dental Care Older horses often have problems keeping weight on. Most horses experience a decrease in digestive function after the age of 20—their bodies just aren’t as efficient at processing nutrients. So while they might be eating the same amount of food, or even more, they aren’t gleaning the necessary nutrition. Dental problems can also contribute to weight loss. Many geriatric horses outlive the function of their teeth.

Text Box: As teeth become less functional, a horse may be getting less nutrition from the same amount of food. Watch for physical signs of dental problems—tilting the head when chewing, dropping food, leaving partially chewed balls of hay. A horse’s diet may have to be modified so he can receive appropriate nutrition in feeds that require less chewing. “Soups" of soaked hay cubes and/or beet pulp plus pelleted or extruded feeds designed for aged horses are often needed. Adding water or oil will make feed softer and easier to chew. Keep in mind that soaked feeds can ferment in the summer and freeze in the winter. Offer these feeds in amounts single-meal doses, possibly three or more times a day. Hay can be fed if choking is not a problem, even if most of it is wasted. Access to good pasture is desirable, but if the front teeth are not in good condition, do not rely on pasture as a major nutrition source. The senior diet should also be: highly palatable, easy to chew and swallow, clean and

Text Box: Proper Care For the Senior–Aged Horse By Emily Tescher-Johnston, Livestock Agent

“Horse Happenings”:

“Horse Happenings” is an extension newsletter for horse owners and horse enthusiasts in the Ward County area.

• If you know someone who would like to be added to our mailing list please contact Emily Tescher-Johnston at the Ward County Extension Service at 701-857-6444.

Horse Happenings