Why Horses Lose Weight

Cold weather means your horse requires more energy for your horse to stay warm. Providing a warm blanket and snug shelter out of the wind and wet will help your horse stay in condition. The best way to keep your horse warm and at a healthy weight is to offer lots of good-quality hay.

Older horses sometimes have problems keeping in good condition. As they age they may not digest food as efficiently, have a harder time staying warm and the aches caused by arthritis or other chronic pain may cause stress leading to weight loss.

Dental Problems

The most common reason for weight loss in older horses is dental problems. Horse’s teeth don’t grow forever, and eventually, they may fall out. Even if they haven’t fallen out, they may have sharp edges and hooks that make it difficult and painful for the horse to chew its food efficiently. This particular problem isn’t exclusive to older horses. Many horses in the prime of their lives can have dental problems that interfere with chewing. Regular dental care is important for your horse throughout its lifetime.

Parasites

Parasites can take their toll on horses at any stage of life. Regular de-worming is essential to avoid a heavy internal parasite load that not only cause weight loss but damage internal organs as well. External parasites can be a problem too. In particular, a virulent lice infestation can cause a horse to lose condition. Foals and older horses may be particularly affected.