Best Equine Joint Supplements for Sports Horses
- Integricare TRI-ACTA H.A. Equine Supplement.
- Pureform Glucosamine Plus.
- Cosequin ASU Plus.
- Absorbine Flex + Max Joint Health Supplement.
- Equithrive Complete Joint Pellets.
- Ultra Cruz Equine Wellness Performance Supplement.
How to choose the best horse joint supplement?
- Regular exercise: make sure you’re not overworking your horse.
- Weight management: extra weight puts pressure on your horse’s joints and contributes to joint deterioration.
- Balanced nutrition: ensure your horse is getting adequate calories and nutritional support for their age,health status,and activity level.
Do joint supplements Really Work for horses?
The research in both humans and horses has been varied in its findings. Some reports have shown improvements while others have shown no effect. Fortunately none have shown any harm. Many horse owners report anecdotal evidence that supplementation works.
What is the best equine supplement for arthritis?
Glucosamine is the most well studied ingredient in joint supplements. It comes as either glucosamine sulfate or glucosamine hydrochloride. Both are effective. Glucosamine is the basic building block of all connective tissues, including cartilage, in all forms of life.
What is the best joint supplement for horses UK?
Science Supplements FlexAbility Plus+ The only joint supplement in the UK with a published peer-reviewed paper in The Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, it contains optimum levels of scientifically proven ingredients.
Does glucosamine really work for horses?
Glucosamine is used by people to treat inflammation, breakdown, and loss of cartilage via osteoarthritis. But, it’s also a highly effective treatment for horses.
Are horse supplements a waste of money?
Buying a supplement for your horse doesn’t seem complicated. If you don’t do a bit of research beforehand, you might end up with the wrong supplement for your horse’s needs. That, at best, is a waste of money. At worst it could create nutritional imbalances that adversely affect your horse’s health.
How much glucosamine should I give my horse?
The currently recommended doses of glucosamine are about 20 mg/kg. For most average horses, that means a dose of around 2000 mg a day. Chondroitin sulfate (CS) is a sugar molecule found in cartilage, bone, tendons, and ligaments.
What can you give a horse for stiff joints?
Start with glucosamine. Add chondroitin or a combination product, if you don’t get adequate results from glucosamine. Try a product with HA (hyaluronic acid) or an herbal, like devil’s claw, for pain and inflammation control, if needed.
What is equine MSM?
MSM is a naturally occurring sulfur compound known for its ability to help horses with stiffness and discomfort associated with exercise and normal daily activity.
How can I help my old horse with arthritis?
Management:
- Keep your horse at a healthy weight.
- Keep feet properly trimmed.
- Keep your horse moving.
- Monitor the footing when turning out and riding.
- Be sure to warm up and stretch your horse before exercising.
- Incorporate passive range of motion exercise into your horse’s daily schedule.
- Work with your veterinarian.
How long does devils claw take to work in horses?
Most manufacturers counsel to allow three to four weeks for effects to be seen.
Do horses need Omega 3?
While both omega-3 and omega-6 fats are necessary for the well-being of the horse, the dietary ratio is critical, and it is in their best interest to emulate the natural diet as much as possible. Supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids can help to rebalance the fatty acid profile toward that of a natural grazing diet.
Is turmeric good for horses joints?
“ Turmeric is suitable for horses suffering from stiff joints and itchy skin conditions, as well as offering support to the digestive system,” says Becky Darby, product advisor at Global Herbs. “A lot of people feed it to provide support to horses whose joints are under stress.”
What is horse boswellia?
For horses, Boswellia is primarily used to maintain healthy joints, helping to keep movements smooth and comfortable. It has also been found to aid in digestion and support respiratory health; and Boswellia can also be beneficial for horses with laminitis.
What do equine joint supplements look for?
Glucosamine is the best-studied ingredient in joint supplements. The basic building block of all connective tissues, including cartilage, it comes as either glucosamine sulfate or glucosamine hydrochloride, both of which are effective.
9 Best Joint Supplements for Horses 2022 – Reviews & Top Picks
Horses are truly colossal beasts of burden. Many of them weigh more than 1,200 pounds and tower taller than six feet in certain cases. Over time, the numerous kilometers a horse travels while carrying all of that weight takes its toll on its joints. Horses eventually experience many of the same concerns that people do, such as joint discomfort, arthritis, and other ailments. One of the most effective methods to help prevent such problems is to supplement your horse’s food with substances that improve joint health and flexibility.
All you have to do now is choose which joint supplement to take, which might prove to be a more challenging decision than it appears at first glance.
In the following evaluations, we’ve examined nine of the top joint supplements for horses on the market.
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites
For horses, we recommend the LubriSyn HA Horse Joint Supplement, which is a natural joint supplement. It is formulated with hyaluronan, which can aid in the reduction of inflammation, the prevention of rheumatoid arthritis, and the provision of tissue protection. Overall, this implies that it will assist in keeping your horse operating at a significantly higher level and free of joint problems. As your horse’s movement improves as a result of the reduction in discomfort, you’ll see significant changes rather soon.
LubrisSyn HA, on the other hand, is clear and flavorless, which makes it considerably easier to give a horse.
This supplement is also an excellent choice for anyone who owns more than one horse.
Yes, it is a little more expensive than alternatives, but it is absolutely worth it.
- Available in huge quantities up to a gallon in capacity
- The liquid is clear and tasteless. Hyaluronan is used in the production of this product. Pain is lessened. It increases movement.
2.AniMed Glucosamine Joint Support Horse Supplement – Best Value
Maintaining the condition of your horse’s joints may be a time-consuming and expensive endeavor. Unlike most other joint supplements for horses, theAniMed Glucosamine Joint Support Horse Supplement is priced considerably more cheaply than the majority of them. It is available in a 2.25-pound tub for a very reasonable price, and it contains enough medication for a 70-day supply in a single container. Despite its inexpensive cost, this supplement has a high concentration of beneficial ingredients.
Each dosage also contains 5,000 milligrams of glucosamine, which has been proved to be useful in the reduction of pain and inflammation, as well as the alleviation of arthritic pain and inflammation.
AniMed, like many comparable supplements, can be difficult to administer to your horse.
You’ll need to thoroughly mix it into your horse’s food in order for it to be effective, but once it is, it has been shown to be a highly successful supplement for improving joint health, which is why we believe it is the best joint supplement for horses for the money. Pros
- It contains glucosamine HCL and glucosamine sulfate. High in omega-3 fatty acids
- Reasonably priced One container holds enough for a 70-day supply.
3.Nutramax Cosequin ASU Joint Health Supplement – Premium Choice
You do get what you pay for in some cases. The Nutramax Cosequin ASU Joint Health Supplementfor horses is insanely expensive, but it is also a highly effective joint supplement for horses that is packed with beneficial elements that are worth the price. It is able to enhance joint mobility and cartilage protection while simultaneously boosting overall joint health as a result of the numerous high-quality joint health components contained inside this supplement. You’ll discover some joint-health all-stars in this combination, including MSM and ASU, among others.
The high dose of glucosamine in each serving of these supplements, which is slightly more than 14,000 mg, has a synergistic impact on the other ingredients in the formula.
Pros
- The supplement contains glucosamine and chondroitin, and it is formulated with MSM and ASU. It helps to maintain cartilage health and joint mobility.
4.COX VETERINARY Lab Acti Flex Joint Supplement
Increased synovial fluid in your horse’s joints, as a result of the Acti Flex Joint Supplement, helps the joints to heal regions that are subjected to significant stress during running. This is accomplished by the use of a combination of essential joint-support supplements, which include critical players such as hyaluronic acid, MSM, chondroitin sulfate, and glucosamine sulfate. You’ll discover substantial levels of each component in this supplement, which includes 8,000 milligrams of glucosamine and 4,000 milligrams of chondroitin, which is higher than you’ll find in many other supplements.
However, many horses appear to loathe it, indicating that it must have a harsh flavor to it.
It is really effective if you are able to persuade your horse to drink it, however it is not always possible.
- Hyaluronic acid is included, as is a slew of joint-supporting vitamins. Pain is relieved, and inflammation is reduced. Formula that is extremely concentrated
5.RICHDEL MSM Joint Support
TheRICHDEL MSM Powder Joint Support, which is available in huge buckets weighing up to 10 pounds, is excellent for relieving the discomfort and inflammation that can occur in many horses’ joints. It contains 99 percent pure MSM, which is a derivative of DMSO, a very powerful ingredient that can aid in the reduction of inflammation and discomfort to significant degrees. This MSM is in a crystalline form, and it has no odor or taste at all, making it an excellent supplement. Despite this, getting a horse to eat it can be a difficult task in and of itself.
If you are successful in getting your horse to take it down, you should begin to observe beneficial results after a few days of doing so.
- Pain and inflammation that afflict many horses’ joints can be reduced with the use of theRICHDEL MSM Powder Joint Support, which is available in huge buckets up to 10 pounds in weight. It contains 99 percent pure MSM, which is a derivative of DMSO, a very powerful ingredient that can aid in the reduction of inflammation and discomfort to significant levels. Unlike other forms of MSM, this one is completely odorless and tasteless, and it may be used orally. To get a horse to eat it, even with this knowledge, can be a difficult task. Taste must be unappealing in this instance. If you are successful in getting your horse to take it down, you should begin to observe beneficial results within a few days of putting it in place. Pros
6.Cetyl M Equine Joint Action Formula Supplement
The majority of the supplements on this list are reasonably priced, with the exception of theCetyl M Equine Joint Action Formula, which is excessively pricey. This would be more acceptable if the supplement had favorable benefits on all horses, but some horses do not appear to benefit from it in any significant way. Despite this, there’s a lot to admire about this album. Horses enjoy the apple flavor of this supplement, which makes it a popular choice among riders. In part as a result, it is rather simple to encourage a horse to consume vitamin supplements, which cannot be stated for many of the other supplements.
Cetyl myristoleate, the primary active component, has been proven to lessen the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis, however research on this compound has not been nearly as thorough as research on other compounds that have been proved to improve joint health in the past.
However, we would have preferred to see more of the clinically validated ingredients in this supplement, but at the very least it has enough levels of each active ingredient. Pros
- Horses enjoy the taste of apples
- This supplement contains a variety of joint-health vitamins.
- Far more expensive than alternatives
- Does not appear to benefit all horses
7.Manna Pro Rapid Flex Fast Acting Joint Supplement
Despite the fact that it comes in a four-pound bucket, the Rapid Flex Fast-Acting Joint Supplementfrom Manna Pro is almost double the price of comparable supplements in the same volume. Despite this, it is a fast-acting vitamin that gives treatment for inflamed and painful joints and joints in general. It’s a natural combination composed from tried-and-true components as well as nine different herbs. A few of the clinically proven substances are chondroitin sulfate, hyaluronic acid, and glucosamine HCL, all of which are standard elements in any joint-health supplement formulation.
Manna Pro says that this supplement is quite appetizing, however it appears that the majority of horses are not of the same mind about it.
Pros
- It is more expensive than certain alternatives
- This does not appear to be a favorite among horses.
8.Corta-Flx Equine Pellets Joint Flex Supplements
It contains 2.5 pounds of pellets, and because they are not a powder, they are often easier to give than other joint supplements. They are easily incorporated into feed and do not appear to affect horses. Aside from that, they include a number of scientifically validated substances such as chondroitin and hyaluronic acid. The difficulty is that there isn’t enough of each element to make a significant difference. In this supplement, you’ll discover simply 50 milligrams of hyaluronic acid and 1,000 milligrams of chondroitin sulfate.
So, why should you pay the additional money on the Corta-Flx Equine Pellets instead of the cheaper alternatives?
Pros
- It contains chondroitin and hyaluronic acid
- It is a joint supplement. In comparison to certain mixtures, pellets are easy to feed.
- Very low quantities of beneficial chemicals
- Overpriced for the amount of product received
9.Majesty’s Flex Wafers Joint Support Horse Supplement
One of the problems we’ve encountered with most of the joint supplements we’ve tested on our horses is that they’re often difficult to apply. Most supplements are in the form of a liquid or powder, and persuading your horse to consume them may be a difficult task, even if the supplement has no flavor or odor to begin with. Majesty’s Flex Joint Support Wafersappeared to be a viable option for the problem. As opposed to powder or liquid, this supplement comes in the shape of wafer treats that should be simple to give a horse with no difficulty at all.
Your horse will struggle to maintain the wafer in its mouth as a result, and many horses will drop the treats while attempting to ingest them.
These wafers, on the other hand, are filled with beneficial nutrients that help to decrease inflammation and enhance range of motion.
Glucosamine, MSM, and chondroitin are all included in this section, which covers the three most significant joint supplements. They might, however, benefit from being present in larger concentrations. Pros
- Wafers are simple to distribute
- Contains a variety of nutrients to improve joint health. Reduces inflammation while simultaneously increasing range of motion.
- Horses find it difficult to consume
- Apparently, the texture does not appeal to the horses. The doses are somewhat minimal for a 1,200-pound animal
- Yet,
Buyer’s Guide
The selection of a joint supplement for your horse should be a simple process, or at least that is the appearance of it. Finding the correct elements in your supplement will ensure that you have a successful outcome. That said, there is an issue in that you have no way of knowing which chemicals you’re looking for. In that case, the information contained in this buyer’s guide will be useful. The following section will provide you with a summary of the most significant and well-established joint support ingredients that you should look for in any joint supplement for horses.
The Major Joint Support Compounds
The substances and compounds that may be found in a joint supplement are many and diverse. Although some ingredients have been shown to be effective in improving joint health, not all of them are. However, the four components listed below have been scientifically proven to be beneficial to joint health in horses, as well as in people’s own bodies.
1.Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a substance that is found in the fluid that surrounds your joints and is essential for joint health. The majority of supplementary glucosamine originates from shellfish, however it can also be produced synthetically. Glucosamine can assist in slowing the degradation of cartilage in the body. It can also help to alleviate pain and inflammation, particularly the type that is associated with arthritis, according to some studies.
2.Chondroitin
Chondroitin is a protein present in cartilage that has been shown to have similar effects as glucosamine. It aids in the reduction of inflammation and discomfort. Furthermore, chondroitin has been shown to reduce the progression of joint and disk deterioration while also alleviating the discomfort that is commonly associated with arthritis.
3.MSM
There are a number of reasons why people take MSM and give it to their dogs, including arthritis, bursitis, rosacea, and other skin conditions. There is no evidence to support the use of MSM in the treatment of these disorders, however it has been found to lessen pain and swelling associated with arthritis. Also discovered is that MSM is beneficial against repetitive stress injuries and can even aid in the speeding up of the healing process after an exercise session.
4.Hyaluronic Acid
Natural hyaluronic acid, which is found in the body’s joints and other tissues, provides lubrication and cushioning properties to these tissues. It can help to alleviate the discomfort and swelling associated with arthritis, and it is found in many joint supplements for both people and animals.
Conclusion
Joint supplements for horses aren’t that dissimilar from joint supplements for dogs or for humans in terms of effectiveness. They often include the same active chemicals and give similar comfort, however horse supplements frequently employ greater doses of these compounds. As you’ve seen in our assessments, there are a plethora of alternatives to choose, but there are three that we believe are the most reliable. Overall, theLubriSyn HA hyaluronic acid horse joint supplement is our top pick for the best horse joint supplement.
- Furthermore, it is available in big quantities up to a gallon.
- It’s difficult to match the AniMed Glucosamine 5000 Joint Support Powder when it comes to price and quality.
- This supplement contains two forms of glucosamine as well as a high concentration of omega three fatty acids to help keep your horse’s joints working properly and free of discomfort and inflammation.
- It contains high concentrations of clinically established ingredients such as glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and ASU, which help to maintain cartilage and promote joint mobility.
Related Read: Top 10 Horse Supplements for 2021 – Consumer Reviews Featured are the best picks. Image courtesy of Helena Lopes and Pexels.
Horse Joint Supplements
Your horse’s joints are responsible for his movement, and maintaining them healthy is essential to ensuring that he can move easily for many years to come. It is possible to benefit from horse joint supplements by offering substances such as glucosamine, hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, and MSM. These chemicals assist to maintain healthy joints and ligaments in addition to improving your horse’s comfort. No matter if you have a young horse, a performance horse, or a geriatric horse, our collection of best joint supplements will offer the right mix for your horse.
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Are you seeking for anything that will aid your horse’s joints without having to experiment with a slew of different supplements that had little to no results? Kim, our Equine Specialist, is sympathetic to your plight and would want to be of assistance. She has compiled a list of the top five joint supplements for horses that may be used to assist enhance the health and comfort of their joints. The way a horse’s weight is distributed means that joint supplements are an absolute must-have in any equestrian’s toolbox of tricks.
Most popular items, low-cost solutions, and products that have gotten a significant deal of positive feedback from customers are included on this list.
We hope that this advice will assist you in selecting the most appropriate option to maintain your horse’s joints healthy and powerful throughout his or her life.
How Do Joint Supplements Help Your Horse?
Even if your horse is not displaying any indications or symptoms of aching joints, this does not rule out the possibility that they will benefit from joint supplements in the future. They may benefit horses of any age and at any performance level, and they are an excellent addition to your horse’s daily routine to help maintain his joints healthy and powerful. They can benefit your horse in a variety of ways, including:– They assist your horse stay active and moving for longer lengths of time while preserving the horse’s joints.– They help your horse stay active and moving for longer periods of time.
They are beneficial because, even if they are pasture buddies, their joints will still become stiff after a period of time.
– If your horse is competing or working, they are critical in preventing and reducing downtime due to injuries or pain. There are a variety of ways that include a joint care supplement in your horse’s diet can improve the mobility and function of your horse’s joints.
Important Ingredients for Horse Joint Health
Of course, the items we’ve mentioned aren’t the only ones that may help your horse maintain or improve the health and condition of his or her joint tissues. Among the elements to search for in goods that will be the most beneficial to your horse’s joint health are those that contain the following substances: These chemicals operate in concert to help in the decrease of inflammation and discomfort in the body. The chemicals in this product protect your horse’s joints, assisting you in keeping your horse’s joints healthy and powerful.
It is beneficial to your horse to have MSM available since it aids in increasing blood flow and decreasing inflammation.
If you have tried utilizing joint supplements containing the components indicated above and your horse’s joint health has deteriorated, you should consult your veterinarian immediately for advice.
Top 5 Joint Supplements
1) The most effective all-around supplement Supplement for the Mojo Horse Mojo Joint Equine is formulated with a comprehensive list of high-quality food-grade vitamins and minerals. Vitamins A, C, and D are among the vitamins found in this supplement in their purest form. It also contains ten different anti-inflammatories to choose from. Every horse of any age or level of performance will benefit from this one-stop shopping experience. The extensive list of high-quality ingredients in this product not only benefits your horse’s joints, but it also benefits his overall health, both physically and mentally.
- What we like about it: When looking for an all-around joint care product, Mojo Joint Equine is a wonderful choice because it is one of the few real all-in-one treatments available on the market. Glucosamine, Hyaluronic Acid (HA), Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), Grape Seed Extract, Omega 36 Fatty Acids, Cetyl Myristoleate, and Yucca Schidigera are some of the most important ingredients in this product. To see the complete list of ingredients, please click here.
2)Favorite Fast-Acting Supplement Mega-Flx +HA (Highly Effective). Mega-FLX+HA Because it is in liquid form, its strong components are able to reach your horse’s body more quickly and effectively. This supplement aids in the maintenance of joint health while also increasing joint resiliency. It helps to relieve inflammation and muscular discomfort while also protecting the joints of your horse. Hydrochloric acid is used to make this product, which helps to lubricate the joints. This will assist to enhance the mobility and general joint health of your horse.
- What we like about it: Mega-FLX+HA is manufactured by a firm that specializes in the production of items for race horses. Veterinary professionals and trainers alike rely on this product because it is high-quality, effective, and affordable. Crucial Ingredients: Glutamine, Glycine, Keratin, MSM, HA, Selenium, Essential Amino Acids, Vitamins B6, C, and E, Manganese, Copper, and Proline. To see the complete list of ingredients as well as label information, please click here.
3)The Supplement with the Most Bang for Your Buck Pellets from JeffersTM Motion Potion Jeffers Motion Potion Pellets are a nutritious option that is also reasonably priced for the average consumer. This pellet supplement aids in the reduction of joint pain and discomfort in your horse. In addition to improving joint mobility and function, it comes in a convenient powder form that is easy to feed. A terrific value, this supplement contains 5,000 mg glucosamine and HA, which delivers the minerals your horse requires to help reduce joint discomfort and enhance mobility at an affordable price!
- What we like about it: Jeffers Motion Potion Pellets are a low-cost and simple-to-feed option for Jeffers Motion Potion. It contains all of the essential components for improving the overall joint health of your horse. Chondroitin Sulfate, Yucca Schidigera, Manganese sulfate, and Calcium are some of the most important ingredients. Glucosamine HCI, HA, MSM, vitamins A, C, and E are also included. To see the complete list of ingredients as well as label information, please click here.
4)Twice the amount of the strength supplement MSM has been used to optimize the cosequin. Cosequin Optimized with MSM offers double the power of the original supplement and is available in a delectable powder formulation. This new and improved Cosequin has been enhanced with MSM, which aids in the production of connective tissues and helps to reduce inflammation. MSM also has the additional benefit of increasing blood flow and decreasing inflammation.
It aids in the improvement of lameness and mobility, as well as the protection of the horse’s cartilage. It contains unusually high concentrations of active chemicals per scoop, including 14,400 mg of Glucosamine HCI per two scoops (for a total of 14,400 mg per serving)!
- What we like about it: Cosequin Optimized with MSM is a very effective supplement that is manufactured by a reputable company whose effects are verified by scientific evidence. Important Ingredients: Glucosamine HCI, MSM, Chondroitin Sulfate, Manganese, and Vitamin C. To see the complete list of ingredients as well as label information, please click here.
5. The Most Affordably Priced Liquid Supplement, Vet-Flex Vet Flexis a really effective alternative that is available at an affordable price. This supplement contains high concentrations of active substances that can assist to improve the overall joint health of your horse. It is comprised of HA and is available in a liquid form. As a result, it functions more quickly and ensures that your horse receives the best possible nutrients. It is beneficial for performance horses because it naturally stimulates the formation of synovial fluid, which aids in the healing and strengthening of damage caused by stress.
And, to top it all off, it’s flavored like a pina colada!
- What we like about it: Vet-Flex gives the most effective joint support at an affordable price. Among horse owners and riders, it is a well-liked, quick-acting supplement for horses of all ages and activity levels. It contains the following important ingredients: glucosamine HCI
- MSM
- Chondroitin
- Collagen
- Ester C
- Manganese
- HA
- Boswellia Serrata
- And Yucca To see the complete list of ingredients as well as label information, please click here.
When you have a horse that is experiencing joint pain or discomfort, the expression “hold your horses” takes on a whole new meaning. The same way that horses affect your lives and make you feel youthful at heart, treating your horse with a daily joint supplement may help your horse remain strong and comfortable no matter how old he or she is. Furthermore, wouldn’t it be wonderful to continue to see your horse running and frolicking like a young filly or colt for as long as is humanly possible?
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call Kim, our Equine Specialist, at the number shown above.
The material provided is intended to be of assistance and/or educational value.
Joint Supplements for Horses: Waste of Money or Do They Work?
When you have a horse that is suffering joint pain or discomfort, it gives a whole new meaning to the expression “hold your horses.” The same way that horses enrich your lives and make you feel youthful at heart, feeding your horse with a daily joint supplement will help your horse remain strong and comfortable no matter how old he or she gets. Furthermore, wouldn’t it be wonderful to continue to see your horse running and frolicking like a young filly or colt for as long as is humanly feasible?
Her email address is [email protected], and her phone number is 1-800-533-3377, where you should ask for Kim.
Neither is it meant to replace nor to be a substitute for the diagnosis, treatment, or advice of a professional veterinarian.
Brand | Price | Prime | Buy | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Cox Veterinary Acti Flex Joint Compound Gallon | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | ||
Bute-Less ComfortRecovery Supplement Pellets, Healthy Inflammatory Response, 5 lb / 80 Day Supply | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | ||
Majesty’s Flex XT Wafers – Superior Horse / Equine Joint Support With Increased Supplement Levels – Glucosamine, MSM, Yucca, Vitamin C – 30 Count (1 Month Supply) | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | ||
Formula 707 Joint 6in1 Equine Supplement, Daily Fresh Packs – Support for Joint Integrity and Inflammatory Response in Horses – Green-Lipped Mussel, MSM, Glucosamine, ChondroitinCollagen | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | ||
Absorbine Bute-Less ComfortRecovery Supplement Pellets, Healthy Inflammatory Response, 2 lb / 32 Day Supply | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | ||
Majesty’s Flex HA Wafers – Superior Performance Horse / Equine Joint Support Supplement – HA, Vitamin C, Yucca, Glucosamine – 30 Count (1 Month Supply) | Prime | Buy Now |
Prices were obtained via the Amazon Product Advertising API on the following day:
Do joint supplements for horses really work?
A multi-million-dollar industry in the United States, and there are literally hundreds of over-the-counter horse joint care supplements available; you can purchase them on the Internet or at any tack and feed store.
However, many individuals are skeptical about their usefulness. Some research suggests that joint supplements may be beneficial for horses suffering from arthritis, but it is uncertain if they are effective for other objectives such as injury prevention or performance enhancement.
What do horse joint supplements contain?
All joint supplements for horses are made up of three essential elements.
- The amino acids chondroitin and glucosamine, as well as MSM (Methyl-sulfonyl-methane), are all beneficial.
Scientists have discovered that as horses age, the manufacturing of chondroitin and glucosamine slows down, leading to joint pain and inflammation. It has been hypothesized that feeding supplements containing these components might decrease inflammation and delay the wear and tear of cartilage in animals. MSM is a sulfur-containing molecule that has the same exact aim as glucosamine: it helps to slow down the wear and tear of cartilage, increase mobility, and reduce discomfort in order to improve the overall quality of life for your horse’s life span.
So, do horse joint supplements work?
While horse joint supplements are widely used, there is still a lot of controversy about their effectiveness in equine veterinary circles; some veterinarians have had success with certain medications, while others are opposed to their use at all. Horses have a significantly different digestive track than humans, which makes it difficult to adapt joint supplement research to equines because of their diverse intestinal tract. However, despite the fact that some human-specific supplements appear to be useful in general, there hasn’t been enough study conducted specifically on horses to give us a definitive answer one way or another.
To summarize
- It is unlikely that your horse’s performance would increase much as a result of providing joint supplements to him. Even yet, several horse owners have experienced a minor improvement in mobility, range of motion, and overall quality of life in their horses suffering from degenerative joint disease after administering certain joint supplements to their animals
- Many owners continue to provide joint supplements in the hopes that it may slow down the wear of cartilage
- However, this is not always the case. Horse joint supplements are used by some horse owners as a preventative treatment to fight against degenerative joint disease in their horses. Despite this, there have been no scientific studies conducted to demonstrate that supplements are useful in preventing joint deterioration.
So what is the best joint supplement for older horses?
I’ve tried a variety of joint supplements in a variety of formats, including liquid, powder, and wafers. I haven’t discovered a type that is significantly superior to another. A great deal depends on your horses and how they ingest and react to the supplement in question. Different substances are included in the finest joint supplement for elderly horses in order to maintain cartilage, connective tissue, and joints. Glucosamine sulfate along with chondroitin sulfate, MSM, and vitamin C are some of the most important components to search for.
- So, which joint supplement is the most effective for elderly horses?
- Acti Flex Cox Veterinary Lab Joint Compound is my preferred liquid joint supplement, while Manna Pro Rapid Flex is my preferred powder joint supplement.
- Majesty’s Flex wafers are a popular choice for a variety of reasons, including the following: First and foremost, it contains the “holy trinity” of joint-supporting ingredients: MSM, glucosamine, and chondroitin.
- It also contains Yucca extracts, which are a potent anti-inflammatory plant that can help horses suffering from degenerative joint disease lessen their pain and inflammation.
- Third, and perhaps most crucially, these wafer-based supplements are simple to give, allowing even owners of numerous horses to simply separate feed the horses who are most in need of the supplements from the other horses.
The wafers help to prevent waste, which is something you see a lot of with other food additive supplements.
Pros
- Extremely little wastage
- Each horse receives one wafer, which may be blended with their particular feed. Protects and restores cartilage that has been injured. Joint mobility has been improved. It also has a positive effect on the hair, skin, and coat.
Cons
- Some horses would not eat it because they were finicky
- Because of the molasses and cornmeal, a few horses developed a great deal of anxious energy while traveling with them. Changes in pricing
What is the best anti-inflammatory for horses?
The Absorbine ButeLess Support for Inflammatory Response is a product that we endorse. The key constituents of Absorbine Bute-Less pellets include Devil’s Claw, Yucca, and Vitamin B12, among other things. Horses benefit from them because they give significant inflammatory alleviation without being hard on their tummies. Even lame horses or horses suffering from founder/laminitis were able to show indications of recovery after only a week of supplementation with this product! Bute instruction is recommended for horse owners to keep on available in case their horse becomes injured and they need to give it promptly.
Pros
- Not recommended for pregnant mares or horses suffering from ulcers (asdevil’s claw may worsen sores)
How long do joint supplements take to work?
When it comes to horse joint supplements, the amount of time it takes for benefits to appear varies from supplement to supplement. This is mostly owing to the fact that their constituents are different. I had an elderly horse that developed stiffness and discomfort in her stifle joint, which I had to put down. She never recovered sufficiently to be able to ride, but she did improve and began moving about more freely after around six weeks on supplements. Most horse owners also discover that certain supplements are significantly more effective than others in terms of lowering discomfort and enhancing mobility.
- In general, any horse joint supplement you choose must have the three substances listed above since these compounds perform better together than they do individually.
- You may also seek for compounds such as collagen, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid, as well as herbs such as devil’s claw and yucca.
- If you use it consistently for at least one month, you may notice a significant reduction in the ‘cricking’ sound made by your horse’s joints!
- A strategy that works for one person may not necessarily be effective for another.
Key takeaways: Do joint supplements really work, or are they a waste of money?
Research suggests that the use of MSM in conjunction with other nutrients such as glucosamine and chondroitin as well as Vitamin C and herbs such as Yucca and Devil’s Claw may help to avoid further degeneration of joint and cartilage wear and strain in older horses. Young horses may also benefit from these supplements since they have anti-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory effects on their joints. However, because no two supplements are same, careful product selection is required. Apart from that, what works for one horse may not always be effective for another.
Aside from that, further trials and research are required to put an end to the controversy over whether horse joint supplements are effective or if they are simply a waste of money.
FAQs on Horse Joint Supplements
Maintaining a healthy weight in your arthritic horse, evaluating its feet on a regular basis, providing a joint supplement that contains glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, MSM, and Omega-3 fatty acids, and introducing range of motion exercises into its daily routine are all things you can do to assist.
Should I give my horse joint supplements?
Consult with your veterinarian before administering joint supplements to your horse to confirm that they are safe. For example, you should avoid giving some supplements to pregnant mares and horses suffering from ulcerative colitis since they may include substances that are detrimental to your horses.
Are horse joint supplements a waste of money?
The improper supplements may not give any alleviation to your horse and, even worse, they may induce nutritional imbalances in the animal if you purchase them incorrectly. A waste of money might arise as a result of this!
Research Update: Joint Supplements for Horses
Dates range from June 1, 2017 through June 16, 2020. Given the fact that joint illness (osteoarthritis, OA) continues to be a primary source of discomfort, impairment, and loss of function in horses, many owners are willing to go to any length to alleviate the situation. Joint supplements continue to be the most popular nutritional supplements, with the vast majority of horses competing in competition using these items as a result. Unfortunately, the quality of joint supplements can vary significantly depending on the components and manufacturer, and experts are still struggling to “prove” that these supplements are effective, despite the fact that many owners believe they have a favorable effect on their pets.
The use of glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and hyaluronic acid in supplements continues to be among the most popular nutritional supplements.
The majority of the study undertaken in this subject is limited to a single or two components, and studies incorporating mixtures of goods are still in the minority.
The researchers were able to demonstrate that:
- When treated with HA or a combination of HA-NAG-CS in an arthritis/synovitis model, synovial cell cultures (which line the joints and produce joint fluid) had significantly better survivability and lower concentrations of inflammatory mediators and degradative enzymes
- When used prior to an inflammatory event, both HA and the HA-NAG-CS combination had a protective effect on the cells
“Kentucky Equine Research offersKER-Flex, a product that comprises glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, hyaluronic acid, and MSM, among other ingredients.” Furthermore, studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation is beneficial to joint health,” Crandell said. In Australia, check for Glucos-A-FlexandSynovate HA, which are both oral supplements. Lubricin, blue-green algae, and curcumin are some of the other compounds that are now being studied for their ability to protect joint health.
Kilborne, H.
Bertone published a paper in 2017 titled The effects of hyaluronan alone or in combination with chondroitin sulfate and N-acetyl-d-glucosamine on horse fibroblast-like synovial cells that had been subjected to a lipopolysaccharide challenge were investigated.
The American Journal of Veterinary Research, volume 78, number 5, is 579-588.
Horse Joint Supplements Guide
Horse joint supplements are effective. What’s encouraging is that we now have some official studies in horses to support this assertion, which is a first. In contrast, if you’ve tried a number of various supplements, you’ve undoubtedly discovered that certain horse joint supplements are more effective than others in terms of allowing your horse to move more easily or reducing heat and swelling. One of the reasons for this is the varying quality of the components used in the recipes. An further concern is that some supplements may not contain the ingredients that they claim to have.
- Some people may see a significant improvement, while others may notice little or no difference.
- Be these substances are referred to as “nutritraceuticals” by the Food and Drug Administration, it is important for consumers to exercise caution when using them.
- Furthermore, new components are constantly being introduced.
- The ideal strategy, on the other hand, is to start by checking labels to ensure that the product you are contemplating includes the required components in the proper quantities.
- Glucosamine is available in two forms: glucosamine sulfate and glucosamine hydrochloride.
- A basic building block of all connective tissues, including cartilage, in all living things, glucosamine is found in all forms of life.
- Some goods may contain “natural sources” of glucosamine, such as the sternum or trachea (windpipe) of cattle, or hydrolyzed collagen from other sources, which are considered to be safe (skin, tendons, ligaments).
- Glucosamine is helpful in relieving pain, and it can do so in as little as 10 to 14 days in some cases.
- A safe and effective dosage is between 6,000 and 10,000 mg/day.
Additionally, during the first week or two of any horse’s therapy, known as the “loading” period, a greater dose is suggested in order to accelerate outcomes by introducing a therapeutic amount of the chemical into the horse’s system earlier in the treatment process.
Joint Supplement Combinations for Relief
- Glucosamine and chondroitin appear to be more effective when taken together than when taken alone. Products that contain the necessary therapeutic doses of each component perform the best when used in combination. It is possible that oral hyaluronic acid (HA) will aid to minimize heat and edema during flare-ups. At a dosage of 20,000 mg/day, MSM is an effective anti-inflammatory when administered orally to animals. A sufficient amount of vitamin C is beneficial for joint health, but too much extra C might be hazardous. Although copper and zinc are vital antioxidants, there is no such thing as a “arthritis mineral.”
Chondroitin sulfate is a key structural component of cartilage, bone, and tough connective tissues such as the whites of the eyes. It is also found in small amounts in other body fluids. The pain-relieving benefits of chondroitin are not as noticeable as those of glucosamine, however some observers have noted that horses on chondroitin appear to move more “fluidly” overall when given the supplement. Chondroitin has had mixed outcomes in formal investigations, with the most significant effect appearing to be the prevention of additional cartilage degradation (see Figure 1).
Glucosamine and Chondroitin are two of the most important nutrients for joint health.
Many horse joint supplements now contain a combination of these two components (among other things).
Products may state or suggest that when the components are combined, the dosages can be reduced while still achieving the desired effect.
Some, but by no means all, of these lower-dose products are effective, but there are no rigorous, long-term equine studies that can tell us exactly what is happening in the horse’s joints at this time.
Maintaining the importance of glucosamine and chondroitin in any joint supplementation regimen is important to remember.
Anything you purchase, on the other hand, is likely to have a significantly lengthier list of components.
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is a kind of sugar that is found in the body’s fluids.
Glucosamine and chondroitin were being utilized in human arthritis patients before those chemicals made their way to horses.
In the 1970s, hyaluronic acid was introduced as an injectable medication for the first time.
Hyaluronic acid has lately been accessible as an oral supplement, which is a welcome development.
The gel formulations are more expensive, but they appear to provide the most quick and consistent outcomes.
Additionally, hyaluronic acid may be obtained in a number of powdered supplements.
It may be necessary to utilize the whole 100 mg dose, or even more, in other circumstances.
You may get an idea of how your horse may respond by first experimenting with a gel in addition to your usual supplement for a few days to see what happens.
Avocado and soy unsaponifiables are plant lipids that are ordinarily shielded from digestion and absorption in the digestive tract.
Pain, on the other hand, did not appear to be affected by these treatments.
In the medical community, ASU is known as a “chondroprotective” (chondro = cartilage).
It will take time before you see any benefits.
The recommended daily dosage for horses is at least 1,200 mg.
It was discovered in one horse research that a dosage of at least 20,000 mg/day was required to be helpful in horses suffering from hock arthritis.
To determine your horse’s response to MSM, get a pure MSM product and administer it in varied amounts to your horse.
It is collagen that has been purified and also broken down into tiny protein units in order to make digestion and absorption of the collagen more easier and more effective.
Recently, collagen hydrolysates have shown promise in the treatment of wound and ulcer healing, as well as the prevention of osteoarthritis (arthritis).
However, the doses necessary to have this effect in humans have been quite high, and a horse may take as much as 40,000 mg per day to achieve this effect.
CETYL MYRISTOLEATE (CMO): Initially discovered as a substance produced in a strain of mice that was unusually resistant to arthritis, CMO (sometimes marketed under the name Celadrin) has received a mixed response from the medical community.
When coupled with therapeutic doses of other joint support minerals, it has been shown to be more effective; however, no trials have been conducted to evaluate the combination of CMO with glucosamine/chondroitin to only glucosamine and chondroitin alone.
Nutritional Supplement Vitamin C is necessary for the health of cartilage and other connective tissues, although it is not recommended to take more than the recommended amount.
There are no equine studies available at this time.
However, because a horse’s body is capable of creating its own vitamin C, this might be an excessive amount.
While a number of anti-inflammatory herbs are frequently included in horse joint supplements, simply because something is included does not imply that the amount included is sufficient to have any impact.
Despite the fact that the list of herbs is lengthy, below are some of the most regularly used, as well as their likely effective dosages: Devil’s Claw is a kind of claw.
Boswellia-500 mg of the extract per day Manganese Despite the fact that manganese is a trace mineral (meaning that it is required in very tiny levels), it is essential for the metabolism of cartilage.
If, on the other hand, your horse’s hay, pasture, and feed are representative of the great majority, he is not only meeting his minimal requirements, but he is also likely receiving far more manganese than he requires.
When it comes to minerals, more is not always better.
Copper and zinc are two of the most abundant metals on the planet.
Many horse diets are high in manganese while being low in copper and zinc, if not completely lacking in these minerals.
To summarize, your horse’s mineral supplements should be chosen in accordance with his entire dietary intake.
A supplement does not ensure that the levels included inside it are appropriate for your horse’s diet, though.
Putting It All Together Don’t wait until your horse is extremely lame before beginning a combined supplementation program for him.
Take a supplement that contains 6,000–10,000 milligrams (mg) of glucosamine and 1,250–5,000 milligrams (mg) of chondroitin to get you started.
Avocado and soy unsaponifiables (ASU) as well as cetylated fatty acids (CMOs/Cela-drin) are both slow-acting substances that have the potential to protect against future cartilage loss.