How old can a horse get? And how do you keep your horse healthy?

How long can a horse live? The life expectancy of a horse varies greatly and is influenced by several factors. In this blog, we will tell you all about the average lifespan of horses and ponies and share advice on maintaining the health of your four-legged friend!

How old can a horse get: the average lifespan

In general, horses live between 25 and 30 years on average. This is a general guideline, as actual lifespans can vary depending on a number of factors. Breed plays a big role, for example; some breeds naturally have a longer lifespan than others. In addition, some horses and ponies can have a genetic predisposition to certain health conditions that can affect their lifespan.

It is important to take good care of your horse or pony. Good nutrition, regular exercise, preventative health care and general welfare measures are essential to prolong its lifespan.

Horses and ponies that are regularly exposed to stressful situations, excessive physical strain or unfavourable living conditions can experience a reduced lifespan. Therefore, it is important to provide a safe and comfortable environment.

The oldest horse in the world

The oldest horse in the world was called " Old Billy " and was a famous horse that worked in a brewery in England. He was probably born in 1760 and died in 1822 at the age of 62. Although this is a remarkably long life for a horse, there have been other horses that lived even longer. It is difficult to know exactly how long horses lived, especially in the past when birth records were not so accurate.

How do you keep your horse or pony healthy when they are older?

To keep an aging horse or pony healthy, it is important to pay extra attention to their specific needs and circumstances:

• Diet: Make sure the food you feed is appropriate for their age and needs. For example, you can feed easily digestible food and good quality roughage. Talk to a veterinarian or nutritionist to create a diet that is appropriate for your four-legged friend’s age, health and activity level.
• Weight Management: Monitor your horse or pony’s weight closely to avoid becoming overweight or underweight. For example, being overweight can lead to problems such as laminitis and insulin resistance, while being underweight can indicate digestive problems or other health issues. Provide plenty of exercise to maintain muscle and boost metabolism, but avoid excessive strain.
• Movement and activity: Get regular exercise to promote blood circulation, strengthen muscles and keep joints supple. Adjust the intensity and duration of the activity based on your fitness and energy level, avoiding overexertion that can cause injuries.
• Health Checks: Schedule regular health and dental checkups with a veterinarian to detect and treat any health issues early. Older horses and ponies can be more susceptible to conditions such as arthritis, hoof problems, and dental problems.
• Comfortable living environment: Provide a comfortable living environment, including a well-ventilated stable with sufficient bedding to prevent pressure points. Provide shelter from extreme weather conditions and ensure that water and feed are easily accessible.

By following these guidelines and treating your four-legged friend with care, you can improve their quality of life and help them stay healthy for as long as possible.

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