To support a horse with arthritis, focus on a diet that reduces inflammation and maintains a healthy body weight. The cornerstone is high quality forage, such as grass hay or alfalfa, which provides fiber and essential nutrients without excess sugar or starch.
Adding omega 3 fatty acids from flaxseed or chia seeds can help manage inflammation. Avoid high sugar grains and instead use a low starch balancer pellet if extra calories are needed. Always provide fresh, clean water and a salt block.
Key Nutritional Principles for Arthritic Horses
For horses with arthritis, the primary goal is to minimize inflammation and prevent obesity, which adds stress to joints. Feed a forage based diet with low non structural carbohydrates (NSC) to avoid insulin spikes that can worsen inflammation. Grass hay or oat hay are good choices, while alfalfa can be used in moderation for its calcium content.
Supplement with omega 3 fatty acids from flaxseed, chia seeds, or algae oil. These help reduce inflammatory cytokines. Avoid corn oil and other high omega 6 oils. Provide a balanced vitamin and mineral supplement without added sugars.
Consider adding devil’s claw or boswellia serrata as herbal anti inflammatories, but consult your veterinarian first. Ensure constant access to clean water and a salt lick to encourage hydration and electrolyte balance.
Managing Weight and Feeding Routine
Weight management is critical for arthritic horses. Overweight horses should have restricted hay intake (1.5% of body weight daily) and minimal concentrates. Use a slow feeder hay net to extend eating time. Underweight horses may need a higher calorie forage like alfalfa and a low starch feed such as beet pulp or soy hull pellets.
Feed small, frequent meals to mimic natural grazing and reduce metabolic stress. Avoid large grain meals that cause insulin spikes. Provide regular turnout and gentle exercise to maintain joint mobility and muscle support.
Monitor body condition score monthly and adjust feed accordingly. A joint support supplement containing glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM may help, but scientific evidence is mixed. Work with your vet to choose appropriate options.
Special Considerations and Supplements
Arthritic horses may benefit from specific supplements. Omega 3s (EPA/DHA) from fish oil or flaxseed are anti inflammatory. Vitamin E and selenium support antioxidant defenses. Devil’s claw and turmeric can be used as herbal anti inflammatories, but avoid overuse due to potential side effects.
Ensure adequate intake of copper, zinc, and manganese for cartilage health. A ration balancer can provide these without extra calories. Avoid excess phosphorus which can impair calcium absorption.
If the horse is on NSAIDs like phenylbutazone, monitor for gastric ulcers and kidney function. Provide a probiotic to support gut health. Always introduce dietary changes gradually over 7 10 days.