Arthritis

Equine Arthritis and Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD) can be crippling diseases. Early detection is the key to preventing this debilitating disease. However, the early signs of joint problems are slight and are sometimes overlooked. You should look for signs that include heat in the joints and mild swelling. Some other early warning signs include changes in performance or behaviour. If your horse is reluctant to change leads or take jumps it may signify early signs of a joint disease.

Older horses are more prone to arthritis. However, horses of any age can suffer from the disease. The disease usually involves the front fetlocks, hocks and navicular bones of the front feet. A joint that is subjected to repeated trauma or stress, such as everyday riding or training can often lead to damage of the joint capsule.

At the beginning a horse may not be lame but as the damage gets worse it could lead to the horse becoming lame or their joints become swollen and hot. If this is not treated it will get worse and could lead to more severe arthritis and eventually DJD.

Once there is damaged done to the cartilage it will not heal well. There is no way of curing equine arthritis but is can be managed. It sometimes will lead to putting your horse in early retirement.

Every horse is different and how they respond to injury will vary between horses. The early signs of joint problems can be hard to spot. It is important to always observe your horse for any type of lameness or swelling and heat of the joints. If you see any signs of arthritis it is best to contact your vet so they can give the horse a thorough examination.