Tips For Caring For Your Older Horse

Because of advances in nutrition management and health care, horses are living longer, more useful lives. It's not uncommon to find horses living well into there 20s and 30s. I have a fabulous mare that is 31 years young. You may think that turning your old-timer out to pasture is the kindest form of retirement. Not necessary true.

My 31 year old (Summer Kiss) is with all her pals in the barn. It has a big turnout for all of them, and she loves it.

1. If you don't have a barn, you should put your older horse away from the younger, more aggressive ones so it won't have to compete for feed.

2. Groom your horse frequently to promote circulation and skin health.

3. Be aware that older horses are prone to tumors. Look for any unusual lumps or growths from head to tail as well as beneath the tail (especially on gray horses).

4. Schedule routine checkups with your equine veterinarian. Call immediately if you suspect a problem.

5. Feed at more frequent intervals so as not to upset the digestive system. Two to three times daily is best.

6. Provide plenty of fresh, clean, water. Excessively cold water reduces consumption, which can lead to colic and other problems.

Topic on Colic

Some horses are prone to colic. To avoid this, no matter what age your horse is:

1. Observe your horse on a regular basis. Watch for changes in behavior and attitude. When your horse goes off its feed, there is definitely something wrong.

2. If your horse starts biting on his sides or lies down and starts rolling, its time to call the vet.

3. To help avoid colic, feed a good high quality diet, and avoid dusty and moldy feeds. Mold can kill your horse.

4. Provide plenty of fresh water for them at all times. Make sure your horse is well hydrated.

5. In the winter months, try mixing a bucket of warm water with a handful of bran and a touch of salt. They drink it right down. Since I started doing this I haven't needed to call a vet in a long time.

Hope you find this helpful.

Georgia Nicolet: I am a horse enthusiast. I have 10 horses of my own. I've been around horses for 35 years. I have always had a passion for horses and always will.

by Georgia Nicolet - 10/04/08

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