Arthritis Symptoms in Ponies

Ponies tend to be hearty and generally live longer than full-sized horses. Because of their longer life spans, they are more prone to arthritis because age is one of the contributing factors to this disease. Arthritis has some distinct symptoms that can indicate a pony is afflicted and may need treatment to make it more comfortable.

  1. Description

    • Arthritis is a disease in which a pony's joints degenerate. It usually occurs in the knees, hocks, coffin joints and fetlocks. There is a lack of lubricating fluid, which causes pain-related symptoms.

    Causes

    • Age is a primary cause of arthritis in ponies, since equines older than age 15 are especially prone to developing it. Activities that wear out the pony's cartilage or cause tears in its ligaments and tendons can also contribute.

    Physical Symptoms

    • There are several types of symptoms that can indicate arthritis. They include ongoing swelling and stiffness around a joint, joint pain after being ridden or other activity, stiffness in the morning or after standing for long periods of time, a grating noise in the joint and lameness ranging from a slight limp to pronounced pain when moving.

    Other Symptoms

    • In addition to the physical symptoms, a pony with arthritis may experience changes in its personality. This is because of the pain caused when the pony tries to move around. The pony may be stubborn and unwilling to work or show a negative attitude.

    Treatment

    • Because arthritis symptoms make it difficult for the pony to move or work, treatment is aimed at relieving the pain. According to Texas Vet News, symptoms are typically treated with equine painkillers such as bute. There are also joint health supplements available at feed and tack stores.