Health Problems of Aging Horses |
Posted: November 30, 2018 |
Horses are among the most beautiful and majestic creatures on earth: their strength, speed, and grace have given them a special place in our hearts for many centuries. Thanks to advances in veterinary medicine, horses are now enjoying a longer lifespan than ever, with a number of horses living to see birthdays well into their late 20s and even 30s! In order to ensure that your horse is able to live his or her life to the fullest, it's important to understand health problems and conditions that are common in aging horses, as well as to learn how to treat these issues for the best possible results. Dental Issues Dental concerns, including worn-down teeth, are one of the most common problems that affect horses of a certain age. As your horse ages, his or her teeth may not only begin to wear, but may also fall out. Other common dental issues in older horses include improper jaw alignment, which hinders a horse's ability to chew food, as well as arthritis in the temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, that can cause pain when chewing. Make sure to have a veterinarian who specializes in equine dentistry check your horse's teeth frequently to help prevent problems before they arise. Vision Problems Horses, like their human friends, often experience a deterioration in their vision as they age. They are prone to cataracts and retinal issues that can cause their eyesight to become impaired. Your aging horse may also be susceptible to developing equine recurrent uveitis, commonly known as "moon blindness," an autoimmune condition that can lead to scarring or even blindness. Make sure to check your horse's eyes frequently and make note of any changes in appearance, unusual discharge, or cloudiness that should be addressed by your vet without delay. Spinal Concerns You've probably heard the term "swayback" to describe an aging horse with a curved, U-shaped spine. While several factors may contribute to a swayback, including pregnancy or excessive strain, the aging process can certainly be a cause for swaybacks in older horses. Additionally, horses' spines can be negatively affected by arthritis as they age. In addition to regular exercise, certain supplements, including natural hemp-based horse supplements, may go a long way towards keeping arthritis at bay and promoting natural wellness. Next time you saddle up your beloved horse, take a moment to think about how much he or she means to you. It's up to you to make sure that your horse is granted a long, happy, healthy life with as few health concerns as possible.
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