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09
Old Friends...
The collagen in ligaments and tendons
becomes weaker with age.
In geriatric
horses, the suspensory ligament may
gradually stretch and become less elastic,
especially in the hindlimb. The fetlock has
less support so moves lower towards the
ground. This can be painful and the horse
may shift weight from foot to foot more
often than is normal. Anti-inflammatories
can be used long term in these cases.
Laminitic hoof growth
Caring for the
older horse
Management
Again, low-level exercise can help to maintain some
strength in the soft tissues but an initial period of
complete rest may be advisable, so do discuss this
with your vet. In-feed anti-inflammatories can aid
healing and reduce discomfort.
Management
Identification and treatment of Cushing's is
paramount. Regular corrective farriery will help to
keep the feet in as good as a condition as possible.
You may need to adjust your feeding regime to
ensure optimal body condition.
Tendon and ligament problems
The elasticity of tendons and ligaments decreases
with age, making them more prone to injury and
slower to heal. The most commonly affected
structures in geriatric horses and ponies are the
check and suspensory ligaments, which are located
on the back of the cannon bone. An ultrasound
scan may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.
Laminitis
Cushing's disease (PPID) commonly leads to the
development of chronic, low-grade laminitis, which
may not be as obvious as classic feed-induced
laminitis. Your vet or farrier can look for the signs
of laminitis in your horse's feet.