Management of Changes and Problems Associated With Aging

As with humans, chronological age does not always match the aging process. In studies by the author many horses over age 20 had conditions that required special care; however, many did not. Indeed, these horses often were still valued as riding or performance horses or, in the case of stallions and mares, used for breeding even past the age of thirty. Age alone should not be a criterion for retirement or special management. If the horse is in good body condition, healthy and active even at 20+ years, don’t change your routine. However, if an aged horse has some of the problems in Table 1, it may be a candidate for special care. Nutritional recommendations are given i