Senior Horse Care

At OC Equine, we understand that senior horses require special care and attention to ensure they continue to live happy, comfortable lives well into their golden years.

Routine Bloodwork to Monitor Organ Functioning

As horses age, their organs, including the liver and kidneys, can experience stress or dysfunction. Routine blood tests provide a clear picture of how these organs are performing and help us detect any issues early, often before they show noticeable symptoms. Early detection allows for timely intervention, which can make a significant difference in a horse’s quality of life.

Metabolic Testing

Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID), also known as Cushing’s disease, is a common condition in senior horses. It occurs when the pituitary gland in the brain becomes enlarged, leading to an overproduction of hormones that can disrupt normal body functions. Symptoms include changes in coat condition, weight loss, excessive drinking and urination, and laminitis.

Annual Exams

Senior horses often have arthritis, muscle loss, weight fluctuations, or other age-related issues that can affect their mobility and overall well-being. Our team performs comprehensive physical exams, including joint assessments, body condition scoring, and monitoring for signs of discomfort or pain. These exams help us tailor a management plan to ensure our patients remain active and comfortable.

Dentistry

Aging horses experience dental issues that can affect their ability to eat, digest food, and maintain a healthy weight. Routine oral exams are vital for detecting signs of wearing teeth, sharp edges, and dental disease, such as EOTRH (Equine Odontoclastic Tooth Resorption and Hypercementosis). These conditions can cause discomfort, difficulty eating, and even lead to tooth loss.

Nutritional Consultation

A senior horse may require different types or amounts of feed to maintain a healthy weight, support joint health, and promote a shiny coat. Our nutritional consultations are designed to help choose the right diet for horse’s age, activity level, and specific health needs.