Caring for Older Horses
- Horses Inside Out
- Oct 6
- 4 min read
Every horse owner treasures the bond they share with their horse. From the excitement of bringing on a young horse and what the future may hold to the twilight years of quiet companionship, these animals give us their trust and loyalty, but as our horses age, their needs change and with that come some of the most important and, at times, most difficult decisions we will ever make as owners.
This is the focus of Chapter 7 of the Bare Bones of the Matter. Veterans and Veterinary Care premieres on Wednesday 26th November 2025. This final episode in the series is a deeply moving and practical look at what it means to care for an older horse - right through to considering end-of-life options.
The Challenges of Ageing
Just as in humans, the ageing process brings with it unique challenges for horses. Conditions such as Cushing’s, melanomas and choke become more common in veterans. Weaker immunity means parasites and infections can take a greater toll. Subtle shifts in body condition or behaviour may signal underlying problems and feeding becomes a delicate balancing act between providing sufficient calories and avoiding digestive issues such as colic.
In this chapter, vet Matthew Barlow discusses some of the more common conditions that can affect older horses and how modern veterinary care can help improve quality of life. Independent equine nutritionist, Clare MacLeod, shares her expertise on the nutritional demands of older horses, highlighting practical ways owners can adapt feeding routines. Also, Diane Gilby from Intelligent Worming explains how immunity declines with age and what that means for worming strategies. Together, these experts bring together valuable insights that offer a clear, compassionate picture of how to keep our golden oldies comfortable and well for as long as possible.
Hands-On Advice for Caring for Older Horses
Every veteran horse is different, but there are a number of practical steps that you can take to ensure their later years are comfortable.
Dental and diet checks: Schedule dental exams at least once a year. Many older horses struggle with worn or missing teeth, so consider soaked feeds, mash or hay replacers to make chewing easier. Monitor weight and condition regularly so you can spot changes early.
Managing weight and condition: Some veterans lose weight easily, while others are prone to becoming overweight due to reduced exercise. Adjusting calorie intake, using oil for slow-release energy, and ensuring they get high-quality forage can help keep them at a healthy condition.
Winter warmth: Older horses can struggle to regulate their temperature as well. Well-fitting rugs of an appropriate weight, clipping, access to shelter or stabling during bad weather can make a big difference. Keep an eye on muscle loss along the topline, which can be more noticeable in colder months.
Joint and mobility care: Stiffness and arthritis are common in ageing horses. Gentle daily exercise, in-hand walking, Pilates style exercises, or short hacks can maintain flexibility and circulation. Joint supplements or veterinary-prescribed medication may also help with comfort. Chat through any concerns you may have with your vet and ask for advice.
Parasite management: Ageing horses are more vulnerable to worm burdens. Carry out regular faecal egg counts and use targeted treatments rather than routine blanket worming.
Routine and observation: Horses thrive on consistency whatever their age. Keeping a steady routine and spending time observing your horse’s behaviour can help you pick up on subtle signs of discomfort or illness before they escalate.
When the Time Comes
No matter how well we care for them, every horse’s journey will one day reach its end. This deeply emotive and difficult topic is one that is discussed in this final chapter of Bare Bones of the Matter. In this episode, Gillian shares the final stage of her beloved Freddie’s life, bringing to light the realities of letting go with dignity and kindness.
Also, in this episode there’s a powerful interview with Dr Nic de Brauwere, Head of Welfare at Redwings Horse Sanctuary. He reflects on end-of-life decisions, encouraging owners to plan ahead and have open conversations with their vets. While this is a subject many of us find uncomfortable to think and talk about, facing it honestly is an act of love and responsibility.
The British Horse Society’s FATE (Friends at the End) campaign echoes this message, supporting owners in preparing for and making end-of-life choices with compassion and clarity. By acknowledging that goodbye is an inevitable part of the journey, we can ensure that it’s handled with the same care and respect we have given them throughout their life.
An Honest, Essential Conversation
Caring for older horses is about so much more than just medical management, it’s about gratitude, respect and being thankful for the years we are given together. The Veterans and Veterinary Care Chapter of the Bare Bones of the Matter provides owners with the practical knowledge and also the reassurance that they are not alone in navigating this deeply emotional time.
This final chapter of Bare Bones of the Matter is essential viewing, whether your horse is already in their senior years or you’re looking to prepare for the future. Honest, heartfelt, and deeply thought-provoking, this chapter is a reminder that the way we care for our horses in their final years is just as important as the way we start their journey.
Chapter 7 of Bare Bones of the Matter premieres on Wednesday 26th November 2025. Join us for this important conversation and help ensure that every horse’s final chapter is one that is full of compassion.
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