Support senior joints with steady low-impact exercise, a healthy weight, good footing, regular farrier and dental care, and a joint supplement where your vet agrees it will help.
Keep them moving
Gentle, regular movement is the best thing for stiff joints. Daily turnout and light, consistent exercise keep the joints lubricated and the muscles that support them strong. Long box rest usually makes stiffness worse, so aim for little and often rather than occasional hard work.
Manage weight and footing
Every extra kilo adds load to ageing joints, so keep a senior horse lean. Provide even, non-slip footing and avoid deep or rutted ground that strains the limbs. Warm up slowly before work and cool down afterwards, since older joints take longer to loosen.
Consider a joint supplement
Ingredients such as glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM and omega-3s are widely used to support comfort and mobility in older horses. Results vary between individuals, so choose a quality product, give it time, and review with your vet. Compare options in our best horse joint supplements and broader horse supplements guides.
Stay on top of feet and teeth
Balanced trimming keeps the limbs aligned and reduces joint strain, so keep a regular farrier cycle. Older horses also lose the ability to chew as well, so regular dental checks and, where needed, softer or soaked feeds keep condition on and keep them comfortable.
Work with your vet
Persistent stiffness, swelling or lameness deserves a proper diagnosis. Your vet can distinguish everyday wear from arthritis or other problems and may suggest targeted treatments alongside good daily management. The earlier you act, the more comfortable the years ahead.
