As our horses get older their body starts to change and deteriorate, leading to possible weight-loss problems once they hit their 20s. Here are some general feeding tips for your older horse:

An older horse’s feeding requirements usually depends on how good their teeth are and how healthy their digestive system is.

If your older horse has good teeth and they are floated when necessary by a vet or equine dentist, they shouldn’t have any problems continuing to eat hay or pasture grass. However, if their teeth are good but they are still losing weight it is possible the problem lies in their digestive system.

If your older horse has bad teeth or an unhealthy digestive system, then regular foraging is going to be very difficult for him. In these cases, getting your horse on a grain and forage supplement program is a good idea. Reducing the particle size of the food and making it easier for the horse to consume and digest will improve their chances of weight gain and weight maintenance.

Beet pulp is a popular feed for older horses as it is very soft and digestible when soaked. Beet pulp expands greatly when soaked and must be soaked for several hours before feeding. Never feed a horse dry beet pulp as it will expand in the horse’s stomach and can cause serious problems.

Senior grain can also be soaked into a nice gruel that is easy for horses to eat and digest. Most senior grains are designed specifically for the nutritional needs of older horses.

You can also buy forage supplements such as hay cubes and hay pellets. These can be soaked as well.

You may have to separate your older horse from the rest of the herd for feeding times, to make sure he is getting all the nutrients he needs.

Be sure to consult your vet as to the feeding and nutritional requirements of your horse.

If cared for properly, there is no reason why your older horse can’t enjoy a healthy retirement!

(photo taken from Pinterest)

“Horses react and want to connect with a person or another horse that is authentic, grounded, present and has a coherent heart rate.”-- Carol Caddes

~ Saddle Up