Q. As my horse ages, how can I tell if he is in pain or no longer comfortable due to osteoarthritis?

A. The primary sign of discomfort you’ll notice is probably going to be lameness, and by working with your veterinarian you can determine the degree of lameness. The degree of lameness will depend on the joint involved and the severity of arthritis. Many horses can function with arthritis. I think it’s important to consider a term we often use in veterinary medicine called “serviceably sound”. After 40 years of working as a veterinarian, I’ve got arthritis without a doubt, but I’m serviceably sound and I can do my job relatively comfortably still.

The degree of lameness your horse shows you and your veterinarian is extremely important. If he’s lying down and not getting up or having difficulties getting up, lagging coming in from the pasture with the rest of the herd coming into the barn, or generally slowing down, these are all signs you might need to contact your veterinarian. Obvious limping may indicate a more serious issue, which needs to be addressed sooner than later. Your veterinarian will come out and do a lameness exam on him and determine the degree of lameness. From there your veterinarian can recommend a treatment and/or management plan to help him stay more comfortable.