Recognizing Age-Related Changes
Horses are considered seniors around age fifteen to twenty, though individual aging varies widely based on breed, workload, and health history. Common changes include weight loss, dental wear that makes chewing hay difficult, reduced ability to regulate body temperature, and a higher risk of conditions like arthritis or Cushing’s disease that require closer monitoring.
Adjusting Care as Needs Change
Senior feed formulas are often easier to chew and digest, and soaking hay pellets or cubes can help horses with significant dental loss get adequate nutrition. Schedule dental exams at least annually, watch body condition closely since seniors can decline quickly, and provide extra blanketing or shelter as their ability to handle cold weather diminishes. Regular, gentle exercise within a horse’s ability often helps maintain mobility better than complete rest.
