Older horses: care basics
Many horses stay active and healthy into their twenties, and some live into their thirties. Horses are often described as older from around 15 to 20, though it depends on the individual. This guide covers general basics. Your vet and farrier know your horse and should guide decisions.
Know your horse’s normal
Good care starts with knowing what is normal for your horse. Learn the usual:
- Weight and body shape
- Appetite and water intake
- Droppings
- Resting and walking patterns
- Attitude and behaviour
Keep notes. Small changes, noticed early, are easier to discuss with a vet.
Feed and weight
An older horse may struggle to keep weight on, or may put on too much. Both are commonly discussed topics. Forage, such as good hay or grass, is the foundation of a horse’s diet, a well-established fact. Beyond that, feed needs differ widely.
Practical points:
- Weigh with a weigh tape or scale regularly, and score body condition
- Provide fresh, clean water at all times
- Divide feed into several smaller meals, rather than one or two big ones
- Soften feed, such as soaked hay cubes or mashes, if chewing is difficult
- Change feeds slowly, over days to weeks
Ask your vet or an equine nutritionist to help build a diet for your horse. Feeds and any additions should fit the individual.
Teeth
Horse teeth keep erupting through life, and in older horses they wear down. Dental problems commonly show up as:
- Dropping partly chewed feed
- Weight loss
- Long stalky fibres in droppings
- Bad breath
- Head tossing or resisting the bit
Regular dental checks by a vet or qualified equine dental technician are a normal part of senior care. Many horses are examined at least once a year, sometimes more often.
Hooves
Regular farrier or trimmer visits matter at any age. Older horses may need adjustments for stiffness or sore feet. Tell your farrier about changes in how your horse moves or stands. Foot problems should be checked by a vet.
Movement and exercise
Gentle, regular exercise helps keep older horses moving. Turnout is the simplest option, as constant, light movement is natural for horses. Consider:
- Gradual warm-up and cool-down for ridden work
- Softer, even ground when possible
- Shorter sessions, with rest days
- Avoiding sudden hard work after a long break
Stiffness is common in older horses. If your horse is slow to move at the start of a day, struggles to get up, or avoids certain movements, speak to the vet.
Shelter, warmth and rugs
Older horses may feel the cold and wet more. A dry shelter, a clean bed and a well-fitting rug in cold weather can help, if your vet agrees it is right for your horse. In hot weather, provide shade, fresh water and fly protection. Check rugs daily for fit and rubbing.
Companionship
Horses are herd animals. A familiar companion, even a pony or donkey, matters a lot. Changes to the herd can be stressful, so move older horses gently. Keep their routine steady.
Health care schedule
Older horses usually need:
- Vaccinations as advised by your vet
- Parasite control based on testing and your vet’s advice
- Regular dental checks
- Hoof care every few weeks
- Check-ups, often twice a year for seniors
Signs to call the vet
- Signs of colic, such as pawing, rolling or looking at the belly
- Lameness or reluctance to move
- Weight loss or poor appetite
- Cough, nasal discharge or laboured breathing
- Increased thirst or urination
- Changes in coat, such as a long, curly coat that does not shed
- Eye changes or cloudiness
- Marked change in behaviour
Colic and sudden lameness are emergencies. Call right away.
Supplements and older horses
Many owners are asked whether they should add supplements for older horses. Horses have their own digestive and metabolic needs, and a product made for dogs or other species is not suitable for them. Always check with your vet before adding anything to the diet.
The takeaway
Forage, regular dental and hoof care, steady movement, shelter and good company make up most of what an older horse needs. Keep notes, weigh regularly and talk to your vet early. Small adjustments through the years help your horse stay comfortable.
What to do next
PAWER is for dogs today. It is not for horses, and we do not suggest giving it to them. Some compounds that suit dogs are not suitable for other species, so ask your vet before you add anything to their routine.
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- If you also have a dog, see PAWER for dogs
General information for pet owners. Not veterinary advice.