Arthritis is one of the most common causes of lameness and reduced performance in horses. Whether your horse is a competition athlete or a beloved companion, understanding the full range of treatment options helps you work with your veterinarian to develop an effective management plan.
Veterinary Medications
Several prescription treatments form the foundation of equine arthritis management:
- Pentosan polysulphate: Administered as intramuscular injections (3 mg/kg weekly for four weeks), pentosan stimulates cartilage repair and inhibits destructive enzymes. Many owners opt for quarterly maintenance courses
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs): Phenylbutazone ("bute") and meloxicam reduce pain and swelling for short-term relief, though long-term use requires monitoring for gastric side effects
- Intra-articular injections: Corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid injected directly into the affected joint provide targeted relief for specific problem areas
- Adequan (PSGAG): A polysulfated glycosaminoglycan that supports cartilage health through a series of intramuscular injections
Natural Supplements
Many horse owners prefer to combine veterinary treatments with natural supplements that support long-term joint health without the side effects associated with pharmaceutical anti-inflammatories.
Green lipped mussel powder is one of the most effective natural options. It provides omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin in a bioavailable form that horses readily consume when mixed into their feed. Research on horses with stifle joint osteoarthritis has demonstrated measurable improvements in comfort and movement.
Joint Rejuvenate dosage for horses follows a tiered approach: 2 mg per kilogram for prevention, 6–10 mg per kilogram for early-stage joint wear, and 20 mg per kilogram as a full treatment dose. A 500 kg horse on a treatment dose would receive approximately 10 grams daily.
Management Strategies
Beyond medication and supplements, practical management plays a vital role:
- Appropriate exercise: Regular, controlled movement prevents joint stiffness. Avoid sudden increases in workload
- Warm-up routines: Allow 10–15 minutes of walking before any collected or extended work
- Footing quality: Work on surfaces that provide cushioning without being too deep
- Weight management: Excess condition places unnecessary load on compromised joints
The most effective approach combines veterinary oversight with consistent supplementation and sensible management. Many owners find that pentosan polysulphate combined with daily Joint Rejuvenate produces the best long-term outcomes for arthritic horses.