How to Help Your Horse Live a Good Long Life

Horses used for riding and, particularly, competition horses, can be subjected to a lot of wear and tear over their lives. As a horse grows older, lifetime stresses on joints and legs may begin to manifest themselves in arthritis or other age-related conditions that can affect its longevity.



Large horses and certain breeds, such as thoroughbreds, tend to have a shorter life expectancy than small horses and ponies. However, by introducing a tailored exercise program, practicing good management and implementing the correct feeding routine right from the beginning, you can help any horse to remain happy and healthy longer.

Things You'll Need

  • Horse
  • Complete horse feed
  • Nutritional supplement (optional)
  • Hay
  • Weigh tape
  • Blankets
  • Grooming equipment
  • Field shelter or stable
  • Bedding
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Instructions

  1. Equine Nutrition

    • 1

      Check your horse's feeding program regularly (at least every six months). Ensure that its ration includes enough concentrated feed to give it energy for its workload. Many horse feeds are designed to be complete, but some horses that work hard may require an additional nutritional or vitamin supplement.

    • 2

      Make sure that your horse has enough long fiber (grass, hay or hay substitute) in its diet. This is essential to help your horse maintain a healthy digestive system throughout its life, and will assist it in avoiding common problems, such as stomach ulcers and colics. Always ensure a good supply of clean water is available.

    • 3

      Monitor your horse regularly. Check its weight using a weigh tape, and note any differences. Take note of its general health; under normal conditions, its coat should be glossy and its eyes bright. Try to avoid any major fluctuations in its weight, and always check with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist if you're concerned about its diet.

    Planning an Exercise Program

    • 4

      Plan an exercise program that is suitable for your horse's age and health. Young horses that are worked too hard too young may suffer from health problems in later life.

    • 5

      Make changes to your exercise program gradually as your horse's fitness increases. Exercise should be built up gradually to reduce stress on your horse's heart, lungs and limbs. Use exercise boots for high-stress activities, such as jumping.

    • 6

      Reduce the amount of exercise as your horse ages. Exercise is very important for older horses because it keeps them more supple and mobile, but they may no longer be able to cope with fast or prolonged workouts.

    Good Equine Management

    • 7

      Practice a good management routine throughout your horse's life. Make sure that it's warm enough by using blankets, if necessary, and check its feet at least once a day for cuts or stones. A thorough daily grooming will allow you to check your horse for injury, as well as keep it in good condition.

    • 8

      Provide sufficient shelter in your horse's field. Trees, a wall or a hedge may be enough to keep it out of the weather but, ideally, you should provide a stable or field shelter. If you can't provide shelter, a warm, waterproof blanket is essential.

    • 9

      Put a good health routine in place. Regular checks by your veterinarian, equine dental technician, farrier and saddler will help identify any health problems as early as possible.