Geriatric Horses

As we get into colder weather, it becomes more important to pay particular attention to our geriatric horses. In the horse world, I would consider that to be an individual from the late teens onward. It is absolutely not true that older horses are normally skinny. Just like it is not necessary for old dogs to be overweight – but that’s for another page! If the management is appropriate, a 25-year-old horse can have the body condition of one half that age. There are a few areas in which our older horses need special care: dentistry, nutrition, and chronic diseases.

Equine Dentistry

Because equine teeth are continuously erupting they tend to develop sharp molar edges that need to be filed (floated) down routinely, every year or two depending on the horse. As the horse approaches the mid twenties the tooth length is nearing the end and becoming narrower as it divides into roots. Teeth at this point begin to become loose.

This is a normal age related change, and must be differentiated from teeth pathologically loose from damage or disease. Loose teeth cause pain and can restrict chewing leading to weight loss. Unattended molar edges can prevent adequate grinding of feed leading to loss of nutrients as well as contributing to colic and choke.
 

Equine Nutrition

Many people are not feeding enough high quality calories to their older horses. Nutrition is a complicated topic that can not be mastered in a weekend seminar. Take the time to arrange a nutrition consultation with a veterinary professional. “Rescue horses” in very poor shape can make significant improvement in body condition in 3 months with proper care.

Chronic Diseases

Geriatric animals of all species suffer a decrease in immune system efficiency. That makes them more prone to parasitism as well as general infectious diseases. Older horses are often anemic and can develop endocrine diseases like Cushing’s and insulin resistance. Signs of Cushing’s disease include a failure to shed out in the spring, a pendulous appearance to the abdomen, abnormal fat deposits, and excessive drinking and urination, among others. If you notice these signs, it may be a reason to test for the disease as Cushing’s disease can predispose horses to laminitis. Testing involves drawing a blood sample to measure levels of ACTH and insulin. Testing is usually avoided in the fall as ACTH levels are usually higher this time of year. Similar in appearance to Cushing’s disease, insulin resistance syndrome is similar to a pre-diabetic or Type II diabetes condition in people. Diagnosis involves testing a resting insulin and ACTH level. Treatment options include dietary management, medications, and exercise to help improve utilization of glucose.

As horses age, they are also more likely to develop arthritis, especially if they have previously been used as a performance horse. There are many therapies for the management of arthritis: injectable or oral analgesic and anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, topical anti-inflammatories, intra-articular medications (analgesics, anti-inflammatories, joint fluid components, platelet rich plasma, stem cells, IRAP). There are many options to help control your horse’s arthritis pain.

If you have a geriatric horse at home that is not looking or acting his best, please let us help you evaluate what the problem may be in order to return him to a healthier and happier state.