If your senior horse is slowing down and losing condition, you might wonder if his feed is still right for him. As horses age past 20, their teeth, digestion, and metabolism change, so what worked at age 10 may not work now.
Our editorial team has gathered practical, species-specific advice to help you adjust your older horse’s diet for comfort and health. This guide covers forage, concentrates, supplements, and hydration for the senior horse.
The Foundation: Forage for Senior Horses
Forage should still be the mainstay of a senior horse’s diet, but the type and form often need to change. Many older horses have worn or missing teeth, making long-stem hay difficult to chew. Soaked hay cubes or pellets, haylage, or chopped hay (chaff) can be easier to eat while still providing essential fiber.
Good quality grass hay is usually preferable to rich alfalfa, though a small amount of alfalfa can boost protein. The key is easy prehension and digestion. Soaking hay for 30 minutes can soften it and reduce dust. Offer forage free choice or in multiple small meals to mimic natural grazing.
Concentrates: Meeting Energy and Protein Needs
Senior horses often need more calories and higher quality protein to maintain weight and muscle. Look for feeds specifically labeled for seniors, which typically contain easily digestible fiber, added fat (like vegetable oil), and balanced vitamins and minerals. These feeds often have softer pellets or extruded nuggets that are easier to chew.
Beet pulp (shreds or pellets) soaked until soft is another excellent, low-sugar source of digestible fiber. Oats can be fed but may need to be rolled or crimped. Avoid high-starch grains if your horse has metabolic issues. Introduce any new concentrate gradually over 7 to 10 days.
Supplements: Filling Nutritional Gaps
Senior horses may benefit from supplements, but they should be targeted to individual needs. Common considerations include a complete vitamin and mineral balancer to ensure micronutrient intake, especially if forage quality varies. Joint supplements containing glucosamine, chondroitin, or MSM may help arthritic horses, though evidence is mixed.
Digestive aids like probiotics or prebiotics can support hindgut health, especially if the horse is on antibiotics or has had colic. A salt block should always be available, and an omega-3 supplement (such as flaxseed or fish oil) can help reduce inflammation and improve coat condition. Always consult your veterinarian before adding supplements.
Hydration and Feeding Management for Seniors
Older horses are prone to dehydration, which can lead to impaction colic. Ensure fresh, clean water is always accessible, and consider adding a bit of salt to the feed to encourage drinking. In winter, heated buckets help maintain water intake.
Feed at least three times a day in smaller meals rather than one or two large ones; this aids digestion and reduces the risk of choke. Keep feed bins low or at ground level to reduce neck strain. Monitor body condition score monthly and adjust rations accordingly. Any weight loss or gain should prompt a vet check for underlying issues like dental pain or Cushing’s disease.