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Supplements for Older Horses in Middle East
As time goes by, the needs of horses evolve, and more senior horses require additional attention. If looked after properly, older horses can continue to perform at the same level as their younger competitor counterparts. Nutritional supplements can offer a valuable way to enhance the overall well-being and performance of aging equines.
Advancements in veterinary and dental care, coupled with shifts in horse ownership practices, have extended the lifespans of horses, with many of them remaining competitive even into their late teens. These seasoned athletes can benefit from extra support to maintain their peak condition, as they become more susceptible to injuries and age-related ailments.
Common Health Concerns in Senior Horses
Lameness: Among senior horses, lameness is a prevalent health issue. When lameness arises, it is advisable to promptly consult your veterinarian. Your vet will evaluate the lameness to pinpoint its underlying cause, which may include normal wear and tear, arthritis, or direct trauma, such as a fall or kick. Your vet can collaborate with you to devise an appropriate treatment plan, which might entail medications like pain relief, anti-inflammatories, and antibiotics, if necessary.
Joint supplements for older horses: Ost-O-Flex aids in supporting cartilage and joint fluid production & normal joint function. It contains key components such as glucosamine, MSM, and chondroitin sulphate. Additionally, it includes potent marine collagen, a rich source of calcium and hyaluronic acid, a crucial element of joint fluid. Ost-O-Flex is available in a liquid form and is suitable for daily inclusion with feed. The ground in the Middle East is notoriously hard on joints so by choosing to supplement with Ost-O-Flex pre-emptively can be protective & prevent lameness problems down the line.
Weight Maintenance: Any senior horse that experiences weight loss should undergo a vet examination to identify potential underlying causes, including diseases or dental issues. Many aging horses require assistance in maintaining their weight, particularly during colder seasons.
Introducing an oil into the diet can aid senior horses in absorbing extra calories. Products based on linseed or flaxseed, like Kentucky Karron Oil, provide a concentrated energy source. These seeds are rich in omega-3 and omega-6, which boost the immune system and enhance coat condition.
Vitamins and Minerals: Older horses may have reduced appetite and dental problems, resulting in decreased nutrient intake and diminished digestion and absorption of vital nutrients. Administering a liquid multivitamin and mineral supplement for older horses, such as Chevinal, can be beneficial. Chevinal is a highly palatable liquid that can be given daily with feed, supplementing essential amino acids like lysine and methionine. It supports the immune system, energy production, muscle maintenance, and various other bodily functions without adding unwanted bulk to feeds.
Antioxidants can be beneficial for aging horses who are more prone to muscle atrophy and stiffness. Chevinal contains optimal levels of antioxidants like Vitamin E and selenium, as well as a range of B vitamins. These can be deficient in aging horses, especially if their digestive health or liver health is compromised.
Hoof Health: Senior horses often experience diminished hoof quality, attributed to lower feeding rates and the intake of key nutrients that affect horn quality and growth. To address this, equine supplements with key nutrients, particularly biotin, can be beneficial for healthy hooves. Hoof Aid is a liquid or powder horse hoof supplement that includes biotin proven to enhance horn quality and growth. It also contains essential minerals like zinc and the amino acid methionine to support overall hoof health.
Conditions like Cushing’s disease/Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID) can complicate the feeding of senior horses. For more information on managing older horses affected by Cushing’s disease, please click here.
If you have questions about caring for older horses, consider reaching out to one of the Foran Equine health advisors for expert guidance, as all horses are individuals!
References:
- Josseck, H., W. Zenker, and H. Geyer. 1995. Hoof horn abnormalities in Lipizzaner horses and the effect of dietary biotin on macroscopic aspects of hoof horn quality. Equine Vet J. 27:175.
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Mohammad Agha
Senior Sales Consultant, Arab Markets
Based in Kuwait, Mohammad Agha serves as the Senior Sales Consultant for Connolly’s RED MILLS Group, representing a prestigious portfolio of products including Connolly’s RED MILLS horse feeds, Foran Equine Supplements, and Carr & Day & Martin Equine care products across the Arabian markets.