Feeding And Nutrition

The nutritional needs of geriatric horses can vary significantly between individuals, and it’s essential to assess these requirements on a case-by-case basis. As horses age, their metabolism and digestive efficiency change, which can impact how they process and absorb nutrients. Below, Thrums provide some general guidelines on nutrition for older horses. However, for specific dietary advice tailored to your horse’s unique needs, it is always best to consult with your veterinary surgeon.

General Guidelines for Feeding Geriatric Horses

As a general rule, the diet of a geriatric horse should be centred around high-quality roughage or forage, which forms the foundation of their nutritional intake. This roughage, typically in the form of hay or haylage, should make up the majority of their diet, providing essential fibre that is crucial for maintaining gut health. Alongside this, it’s important to supplement their diet with appropriate vitamins and minerals to ensure they receive a balanced nutrient profile.

Older horses may have diminished digestive capabilities, making it harder for them to extract sufficient energy and nutrients from their feed. To address this, you may need to provide additional energy through concentrates, such as coarse mixes specifically formulated for older horses. These concentrates are designed to be more easily digestible and softer, making them easier to chew, which is especially important if your horse has dental issues. In cases where dental problems are severe, soaking the feed can help make it easier for your horse to consume.

The Importance of Regular Exercise and Turnout

Movement is crucial for older horses, particularly when it comes to aiding the digestion and passage of food through the gut. Regular exercise through turnout not only keeps your horse physically fit but also promotes natural grazing behaviours that are beneficial for their digestive health. Horses that have access to pasture and are allowed to graze freely are less likely to develop colic, as grazing encourages them to eat slowly and continuously in a manner that is natural to them. If for any reason turnout is not available, it’s important to consult with your veterinary surgeon to develop an appropriate diet plan that compensates for the lack of grazing.

Additional Considerations for Geriatric Horses

Older horses often face challenges in maintaining their body condition, particularly when they have to compete with younger or more dominant horses for food. To ensure that your geriatric horse receives adequate nutrition, it’s vital to provide a stress-free feeding environment where they can eat without interference. Separating them from other horses during feeding times can help prevent competition and ensure they consume the necessary amount of food.

Finally, monitoring your horse’s overall body condition is essential for determining the correct amount of feed. Regular assessments of body condition will help you adjust their diet as needed, ensuring they maintain a healthy weight and receive the right balance of nutrients.

Remember, while these guidelines provide a general overview of feeding practices for geriatric horses, each horse is unique. Always seek specific advice from your veterinary surgeon to develop a diet plan that best meets the individual needs of your older horse. Regular check-ups and consultations will help keep your geriatric horse healthy and comfortable in their later years.