How soon is too soon to start your horse on joint supplements? While many horse owners associate joint aids with the senior years, you may be surprised to learn that even young horses can benefit from quality horse joint supplements.
When Do Horses Develop Osteoarthritis?
Over 60% of lameness in horses is associated with osteoarthritis. Horses with age-related joint degeneration may start to show symptoms as young as five years of age. However, wear and tear is not the only cause of arthritis. In young horses, the most common cause is athletic trauma. Rheumatoid arthritis, the autoimmune disorder that occurs in humans, is not common in horses.
As cartilage breaks down due to injury, repeated trauma, or everyday wear and tear, it is not initially painful. Cartilage itself does not contain nerves to send pain signals to the brain. Pain does not occur until the cartilage has worn away and the joint is no longer protected. It is only when bone rubs against bone that the condition becomes painful.
Keep in mind that arthritis is not curable. Joint degeneration cannot be reversed. When treating arthritis, the goal is to minimize pain and slow the degradation of the joints with proper veterinary care and supportive products such as joint supplements for horses.
By starting your horse on joint supplements before they show signs of pain, you may be able to support long-term joint health and mobility. The preventative effects of joint supplements for horses have not been widely studied, though research in humans and other animals is promising. Side effects from joint supplements are relatively rare and mild, so there is little downside to starting too early under veterinary guidance.
When Can My Horse Start Joint Supplements?
The potential benefits and side effects of joint supplements in foals have not been studied. Pregnant mares and those intended for breeding should not take a joint supplement unless under the guidance of a veterinarian.
However, you do not have to wait until your horse stops growing at 6 to 8 years old to get your young horse started on a supplement. After two years of age, your horse’s growth slows down substantially. While they may not reach their full adult height for a few more years, you can start them on a low-maintenance dose of a horse joint care supplement as early as age two.
You may want to hold off until they begin riding training. Joint supplements contain naturally occurring compounds already found in your horse’s body. Adding these compounds to their diet can help support joint repair from the natural breakdown that occurs with daily use. Joint supplements can also help support recovery from injuries.
Which Joint Supplements Really Work?
The most popular joint supplements for horses contain:
- Glucosamine
- Chondroitin
- Hyaluronic acid HA
- Methylsulfonylmethane MSM
These compounds are often referred to as the building blocks of healthy joints. Research suggests they work best when taken together.
Omega-3 fatty acids found in ingredients like flaxseed can help reduce inflammation and support cognitive, heart, and immune health.
Some supplements contain additional joint-supporting ingredients. For example, certain formulas include antioxidants such as Vitamin C and selenium to help boost collagen production and reduce oxidative damage.
When choosing a product, look for high-quality equine joint supplements formulated specifically for horses and follow label directions carefully.
How Can I Relieve My Horse’s Joint Pain?
For horses that have already started to show signs of pain, it is imperative to talk to your veterinarian before introducing supplements. Many injuries and health conditions can cause symptoms similar to osteoarthritis.
Once your horse has been diagnosed with arthritis, you can work with your veterinarian to decide which treatment options are appropriate. A joint supplement may help improve mobility and reduce signs of inflammation. If additional support is needed, your veterinarian may recommend other therapies.
Herbs such as turmeric and yucca schidigera extract are sometimes used alongside conventional treatments like steroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Keep in mind that even holistic supplements can cause contraindications. Always speak with your veterinarian before starting a new supplement, especially if your horse has a chronic health condition or is taking prescription medications.
Supporting your horse’s joints early with the right nutrition, exercise program, and equine joint supplements can help promote comfort and mobility throughout every stage of life.
