Horses, much like humans, can experience achy joints over time, especially if they lead active lives. The cushioning cartilage and connective tissues gradually begin to deteriorate, and the joint lining might become inflamed. To prevent and combat these changes, many owners give their steeds a little extra help in the form of a joint supplement. Would you know if your horse needed a joint supplement? And, if so, how do you choose the right one? Read on to learn all about joint supplements for horses.
Which Horses Benefit Most?
While any horse can potentially benefit from joint supplements, these types are more likely to need them than others:
- Performance horses, with their intense training and competition schedules.
- Older horses experiencing wear and tear as they age.
- Horses with histories of joint issues or injuries.
If your horse falls into any of these categories, you might want to discuss joint supplementation with your veterinarian.
3 Signs Your Horse Needs a Joint Supplement
Not all horses display overt signs of joint discomfort, so be vigilant. Here are three clues that should have you thinking about your horse’s joint health:
- A noticeable change in movement. If your horse seems to be reluctant to move forward, shows stiffness in his gaits, or has trouble getting up when lying down, these could be indicators of joint issues.
- Swelling or heat around the joints, which can be indicative of inflammation. Regular grooming sessions provide a perfect opportunity to check for these physical changes.
- A decline in performance. If a typically energetic horse suddenly starts underperforming or losing interest in activities he once enjoyed, it might be due to joint discomfort.
Don’t wait, however, to see signs of stiffness to start your horse on a joint supplement. It’s smart to get ahead of issues and support his joints by incorporating one into your horse’s diet early in life.
The Secrets to Selecting Joint Supplements for Horses
When choosing a supplement, look for ingredients backed by research. | My New Horse staff
With so many options available, choosing a joint supplement can seem overwhelming. Here are some steps to help guide you through the process:
- Look for research-backed products that contain key ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and hyaluronic acid. These components have been proven to aid in joint health.
- Consider the form of the supplement. Joint supplements for horses come in various forms, such as pellets, powders, or liquids. Determine which one is easiest for your horse to consume and most convenient for you to administer.
- Consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new supplement into your horse’s diet. He or she can provide valuable insights and recommendations based on your horse’s specific needs and history. Your vet can also help you choose a supplement that’s safe and effective.
You’ve Chosen a Supplement, Now What?
When incorporating a joint supplement into your horse’s diet, simply add it into or on top of his regular feed each day. Follow the dosing instructions on the package label to ensure your horse receives the correct amount for his size and needs. Many joint supplements for horses will have a “loading dose” and a “maintenance dose” on the label. A loading dose refers to a higher initial dose of a supplement intended to quickly elevate the nutrient levels in the horse’s system. After a set period, you can reduce it to a maintenance level, which helps maintain the nutrient levels. It’s important to follow these dosing instructions to ensure your horse benefits from his supplementation.
Lastly, remember to be patient! While supplements can help improve joint health, they are not quick fixes. It takes time for the body to respond and joint function and comfort to improve. Some horse owners report seeing improvements within a few weeks, while others say it takes a few months.
Take-Home Message
To determine whether your horse needs a joint supplement, observe his movement and behavior, consider his activity level, and consult with your veterinarian. Always choose supplements wisely, considering their ingredients, form, and efficacy studies. Remember, joint supplements are just one part of your horse’s joint health journey. They do not replace regular veterinary checkups and are meant to complement your horse’s overall care routine, including weight management, proper hoof care, regular exercise, and more.
