How to Feed and Care For the Senior Horse

hay and feed.
Temperature regulation
Older horses may get cold more easily than younger horses not only because of thin body condition but because more aggressive horses may prevent them from accessing shelter. Blanketing turnout with fewer horses or an increase in the older horses hay ration may be solutions. In hot weather access to a breezy shaded area will help prevent overheating.
Routine veterinary care
Owners should schedule a wellness checkup at least once a year. As part of an exam a veterinarian can do blood tests to determine thyroid function and other indicators of health. Senior horses also need to stay current on necessary vaccinations even though they may not travel to shows or rides and are therefore not exposed to many other horses. Check with your veterinarian to see what protection is needed in your area.
Hoof care
It may be tempting to skip farrier appointments for older horses since they arent working or traveling but these animals need to stay on a regular schedule of trimming or shoeing regardless of activity. Overgrown feet are more susceptible to problems like white line disease and proper hoof angle can ease the discomfort of navicular disease. Cushings syndrome and other metabolic disorders are often linked to laminitis and regular farrier care can keep victims of these diseases more comfortable.
Chronic pain management
Senior horses may suffer from arthritis gastric ulcers navicular disease and other conditions that produce chronic pain. Dealing with pain can impact appetite and cause horses to lose weight. A veterinarian can usually diagnose and treat the cause of chronic pain. Because some drugs affect the function of kidneys and digestive organs a veterinarians guidance is suggested.
Maintaining the status quo
Older horses may react poorly to change of any kind. A different pasture the introduction of new horses or variations in personnel or feed schedules may upset them enough to cause a decreased appetite. Minimize change as much as possible and watch senior horses carefully for a few days after necessary changes are made.