Caring for the Equine Elder

senior horse can be a challenging task. Some seniors have difficulty keeping weight on while others go up a girth size at the sight of grass. It is important to develop a diet and exercise program that meets your horses individual needs. Many feed companies offer feeds specifically formulated for the senior these are often higher in protein content and extruded to break down the courser elements. 
The senior that is dropping pounds requires a closer look. Dental care may be needed if their teeth are not grinding food properly. If the enamel is soft or teeth are missing or worn changes from coarse feeds to softer ones may be needed. Easytodigest supplements may also be needed. Stay on the lookout for quidding as this indicates a dental problem.
Monitor your horses weight loss or gain by estimating his weight using a measuring tape.
Measure the girth by placing the tape over the horses back just behind the withers and passing it around the horse over the girth groove.
Measure the length from the point of the shoulder to the point of the buttock.
Fitness for Health
The saying youre only as old as you feel certainly applies to horses and use it or lose it relates to horses just as much as humans. Unused muscles tendons and ligaments will weaken over time. The senior horses exercise regime should be carefully planned to encourage mobility for health without putting undue stress on old injuries or areas of particular weakness.
Exercise is important for helping to maintain healthy gut function. Lack of movement weakens muscles and bones while mild exercise can help reduce inflammation in tendons ligaments and joints. Exercise also helps prevent the senior from gaining too much weight letting an elder become obese only adds to the strain on their joints.