Feed a senior horse easily chewed, digestible forage, use a senior feed or hay replacer if teeth are failing, keep protein and quality up, add a balanced supplement, and adjust for weight, since some gain and some lose.
Mind the teeth
Worn or missing teeth are the main feeding challenge in old age. If a horse quids or drops weight, it may no longer chew hay well. Soaked feeds, chopped forage and hay replacers let a senior horse get its fibre without needing to grind long hay.
Choose the right feed
Senior feeds are formulated to be easy to chew and digest, with quality protein to maintain muscle and topline that older horses tend to lose. Feed to condition, and split feeds into smaller, more frequent meals, which suits an ageing digestion.
Balance the diet
Older horses still need a full complement of vitamins and minerals, and often benefit from added support for joints and general health. Where the diet is short, a supplement fills the gaps and helps a senior horse get the most from its feed.
Feed the individual
Seniors vary: some struggle to hold weight and need more calories, while others gain easily, especially if they have a metabolic condition. Body condition score regularly and adjust, rather than assuming every old horse needs building up.
Support with good care
Feeding works best alongside regular dental checks, worming, and warmth and shelter in bad weather. Watch for changes and involve your vet early, and a well-fed senior horse can stay happy and comfortable for many years.
