Does your horse seem stiff? Does their gait seem uneven, and are they reluctant to do activities that once came naturally? It might be arthritis, which is responsible for up to 60 percent of all lameness in horses.
Though most often seen in horses over age 15 due to normal wear and tear, arthritis can affect horses of any age, breed, and activity level.
Why Does My Horse Have Arthritis?
Arthritis is not a disease. It is a general term that describes joint inflammation, which can be due to several underlying causes.
Degenerative joint disease (DJD), also known as osteoarthritis, is the gradual deterioration of the cartilage in your horse’s joints and is typically caused by old age. Though it cannot be cured, the progression can be slowed, and your horse’s symptoms can be managed so they may live comfortably and even continue to be ridden after diagnosis.
Traumatic arthritis is caused by an injury near or at the joint, such as a sprain, meniscal tear, or consistent stress from riding. This is more common in athletic horses and can occur before their senior years. If the underlying injury is discovered and treated early, you may be able to prevent further damage to the joint. Anti-inflammatory medications found in the pain relief category are often used alongside veterinary care to help manage discomfort.
Septic arthritis is inflammation around the joint caused by an infection. In foals, it is typically caused by bacteria that have traveled through the bloodstream from another part of the body. Septic arthritis can also occur through the invasion of bacteria through a wound near the affected joint. It can be life-threatening and difficult to treat as it progresses, so it is crucial that you have your horse treated as soon as possible.
Diagnosis for Horses With Arthritis
Even if you are fairly certain that your horse has arthritis, you will need to work with your veterinarian to determine which joints are affected, how the condition has progressed, and what treatment options may help.
Your veterinarian will typically begin diagnosing your horse by observing their gait. They may then perform a hands-on physical examination to check for swelling, warmth, and tenderness around the affected joints.
If your veterinarian is unsure which joint is affected, they may perform a nerve block test. During this test, one joint at a time is temporarily anesthetized until your horse’s symptoms improve.
Additional diagnostic tools may include
- X rays
- Ultrasound imaging
- Arthroscopy
- Other specialized tests to evaluate joint health
Balancing Exercise and Rest for Horses With Arthritis
Light to moderate exercise is often recommended for horses with arthritis, depending on the severity of their symptoms. Exercise helps keep your horse flexible, improves circulation, and supports a healthy weight while also preventing boredom.
With guidance from your veterinarian, you may still be able to ride your horse. However, it is important to make some adjustments to their routine.
- Allow longer warm-up and cool-down periods
- Ride on softer footing when possible
- Incorporate gentle stretching and massage
Joint Supplements for Horses With Arthritis
Oral supplements may help alleviate symptoms, reduce inflammation, and support joint health in horses with arthritis. Many products in the hip and joint category contain ingredients commonly used to support joint function.
These supplements often include
- Glucosamine
- Chondroitin
- Hyaluronic acid
- Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
Omega-3 fatty acids may also help control inflammation and support joint health. These fatty acids are commonly found in ingredients such as flaxseed.
Medication for Horses With Arthritis
Your veterinarian may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to help manage your horse’s pain. Phenylbutazone is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for equine arthritis and is available in several forms.
Some treatment plans may also include injectable medications that support joint health. Products available in the joint care category are commonly used under veterinary guidance.
A correct diagnosis is essential before starting any treatment, including oral supplements. If you notice even subtle signs of lameness in your horse, speak with your veterinarian as soon as possible. Early treatment can help reduce strain on your horse’s joints and improve long-term comfort and mobility.
