Senior Horse Care Guide: How to Keep Your Aging Horse Comfortable, Sound, and Thriving
Senior horses carry more than age—they carry stories. From championships to trail rides, from first lessons to last rides, they’ve earned more than care—they’ve earned reverence.
As horses age, their needs evolve. This guide breaks down what your senior horse needs physically, emotionally, and practically—so you can support them with confidence and compassion.
When Is a Horse Considered a Senior?
Generally, horses over 15 are considered “senior,” but age is only part of the story. Some horses may show signs of aging earlier—like slower movement, difficulty maintaining weight, or increased stiffness—while others stay spry into their 20s. Pay attention to changes in behavior, muscle tone, and mobility rather than just numbers.
1. Joint Support and Mobility
Watch for Signs of Discomfort:
- Reluctance to move or pick up feet
- Stiffness after rest
- Uneven gait or shortened stride
Best Practices:
Incorporate low-impact movement daily—like hand-walking, gentle turnout, or soft lunge work. Regular motion is critical for joint lubrication and stiffness prevention.
Topical Solutions to Support Comfort:
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Draw It Out® High Potency Gel: Daily-use liniment gel that penetrates deep without burning or stinging. No tingle. No stink. Just fast-acting relief.
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MasterMudd™ EquiBrace: A powerful muscle and joint brace with Arnica and MSM to address deeper soreness and support recovery after work or turnout.
2. Hoof and Skin Support
Why It Matters:
Senior horses may develop issues like thrush, abscesses, or skin conditions due to reduced circulation, compromised immune response, or just slower healing.
What to Watch:
- Cracks, chipping, or signs of soft soles
- Rain rot, dew poisoning, cannon crud
- Scabs that don’t resolve quickly
Product Picks:
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RESTOREaHORSE® Salve: A naturally-derived salve that supports wound healing and skin repair—non-greasy, non-staining, and competition safe.
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Rapid Relief Restorative Cream: Targets fungal and bacterial skin irritations like scratches, rain rot, and thrush with gentle effectiveness.
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SilverHoof EQ Therapy®: Hydrates, protects, and promotes hoof and pastern health—especially in older horses with brittle feet or frequent flares.
3. Diet, Nutrition, and Hydration
Senior horses often need specialized feed to support digestion, weight maintenance, and overall immune health. Look for forage-first diets with added fat, prebiotics, and high-quality protein.
Don’t overlook hydration—older horses are more susceptible to dehydration, especially in winter. Provide soaked hay pellets or warm mash during colder months.
4. Exercise and Movement
Keep them moving—but gently. Movement boosts circulation, keeps joints lubricated, and helps prevent stiffness or depression. Adapt your routine to meet their energy and comfort levels.
Pro Tip:
Post-exercise application of liniments or wraps with Draw It Out® Gel can help them recover faster and stay sound longer.
5. Emotional Wellbeing
Older horses are often deeply bonded to their humans. Routine, comfort, and quiet companionship matter. Make time for grooming, hand-grazing, or just standing still with them. It’s good for both of you.
6. Grooming & Comfort
- Use soft brushes and slow movements
- Blanket thoughtfully—older horses may lose muscle and struggle with temperature regulation
- Keep hooves picked and legs wrapped when needed to prevent swelling
7. Building a Senior Horse Wellness Kit
Your kit should include:
Final Word: They Deserve It
Senior horses don’t need your pity. They need your presence. They need consistency, clarity, and care backed by products that do exactly what they say they’ll do.
Draw It Out® is built for that kind of care. No sting. No stress. Just deep relief, every single time.
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