Senior Horse Care in Winter
November 25, 2016
Senior Horse Care in Winter
November 25th, 2016
Senior horses may need special care during winter. The relationship that you have with your senior horse is special because you have had a long time to nourish and develop it.
What qualifies a horse as a senior? While some horses are slowing down at 15, others are feeling peppy up to 20. If your horse is showing symptoms of stiffness, difficulty maintaining weight, and more frequent infections, it qualifies as a senior horse.
It is important to monitor your senior's teeth year round. If he is not chewing properly, he is not able to receive the full benefit of the feed you are providing. This can be a great time to evaluate your horse's diet. Your horse's nutritional needs change as it grows older. The basis of the diet should remain as high quality forage. The best source for heat in colder months is the hindgut fermentation of long stem forage. This means a steady supply of good quality is hay is needed on cold days.
Older horses can be more prone to skin infections and other problems caused by the cold weather. Blanketing your horse during times when it is cold and wet can be beneficial to keep your horse warm. Many senior horses lose weight and muscle tone over the winter. If your horse is blanketed, make sure you remove blanket weekly to monitor their weight. You should be able to feel 1/4 inch of fat cover over its ribs.
Many horses decrease their water intake in the winter months. Having a tank heater in the water is crucial to ensure your horse is able to drink at all times. Also adding salt or electrolytes can be beneficial.
Winter conditions can be harsh on your horse's hooves. Make sure to keep regular farrier appoints to keep your horse's hooves in tip top shape. Older horses are more likely to develop joint problems such as degenerative joint disease. Make sure you discuss any concerns with your veterinarian. Joint supplements and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories can be beneficial. Winter time can b challenging here in Colorado, but by following these simple tips, you can ensure your horse is ready and healthy when spring rolls around.
November 25th, 2016
Senior horses may need special care during winter. The relationship that you have with your senior horse is special because you have had a long time to nourish and develop it.
What qualifies a horse as a senior? While some horses are slowing down at 15, others are feeling peppy up to 20. If your horse is showing symptoms of stiffness, difficulty maintaining weight, and more frequent infections, it qualifies as a senior horse.
It is important to monitor your senior's teeth year round. If he is not chewing properly, he is not able to receive the full benefit of the feed you are providing. This can be a great time to evaluate your horse's diet. Your horse's nutritional needs change as it grows older. The basis of the diet should remain as high quality forage. The best source for heat in colder months is the hindgut fermentation of long stem forage. This means a steady supply of good quality is hay is needed on cold days.
Older horses can be more prone to skin infections and other problems caused by the cold weather. Blanketing your horse during times when it is cold and wet can be beneficial to keep your horse warm. Many senior horses lose weight and muscle tone over the winter. If your horse is blanketed, make sure you remove blanket weekly to monitor their weight. You should be able to feel 1/4 inch of fat cover over its ribs.
Many horses decrease their water intake in the winter months. Having a tank heater in the water is crucial to ensure your horse is able to drink at all times. Also adding salt or electrolytes can be beneficial.
Winter conditions can be harsh on your horse's hooves. Make sure to keep regular farrier appoints to keep your horse's hooves in tip top shape. Older horses are more likely to develop joint problems such as degenerative joint disease. Make sure you discuss any concerns with your veterinarian. Joint supplements and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories can be beneficial. Winter time can b challenging here in Colorado, but by following these simple tips, you can ensure your horse is ready and healthy when spring rolls around.
