Joint Supplements for Horses: Waste of Money or Do They Work?

Last updated: September 6, 2024

By: Miles HenryFact Checked

We typically use bute to treat our horses’ joint pain. Although it can effectively relieve discomfort, it carries potential side effects, such as liver damage. Recently, I started using supplements because many don’t carry the health risks associated with traditional medications. But do they work?

Effectiveness of Joint Supplements: Key Ingredients

Joint supplements are widely used in the equine industry to manage arthritis symptoms and other joint-related issues in horses. These supplements are not cures but are intended to provide relief and support for joint health. The effectiveness of these supplements varies depending on several factors, including the quality of the product, the specific formulation, and the individual needs of the horse.

Key Ingredients in Joint Supplements

1. Glucosamine:
   • Role: Glucosamine is a naturally occurring compound that plays a crucial role in the maintenance and repair of joint cartilage, the tissue that cushions the joints. It helps reduce inflammation and supports cartilage health.
   • Effectiveness: Despite its popularity, research indicates that the bioavailability of glucosamine in horses is relatively low. This means that only a small percentage of glucosamine is absorbed into the bloodstream when taken orally, potentially limiting its effectiveness unless it is combined with other supportive ingredients.
2. Chondroitin:
   • Role: Chondroitin sulfate works alongside glucosamine to protect joint cartilage. It helps to retain water in the cartilage, which is essential for maintaining joint lubrication and shock absorption. Chondroitin also inhibits enzymes that break down cartilage.
   • Effectiveness: The combination of glucosamine and chondroitin is often considered more effective than either ingredient alone, as they work synergistically to support cartilage health. However, the effectiveness can still vary depending on the quality of the supplement and the individual horse’s condition.
3. MSM (Methyl-sulfonyl-methane):
   • Role: MSM is a sulfur compound known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It supports the overall health of connective tissues, helps reduce joint pain, and improves mobility. MSM is often included in joint supplements to help manage pain and inflammation, which are common issues in horses with arthritis or other joint problems.
   • Effectiveness: MSM’s anti-inflammatory benefits are well-documented, particularly when used in conjunction with glucosamine and chondroitin. This combination provides a comprehensive approach to joint care by addressing both cartilage repair and inflammation.

Summary

Combining glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM in a joint supplement can offer well-rounded support for maintaining joint health in horses. However, the effectiveness of these supplements can vary widely based on the quality of the product, the dosage, and the specific needs of the horse. It’s crucial for horse owners to consult with a veterinarian before introducing any joint supplements to ensure they choose the right product and dosage for their horse’s unique condition.

Quality control is essential—opting for supplements from reputable manufacturers that follow good manufacturing practices can help ensure the safety and efficacy of the product. Additionally, ongoing monitoring of your horse’s response to the supplement is vital.

Regular check-ins with your veterinarian can help determine whether adjustments to the supplement regimen are needed to achieve the best results. This careful approach ensures that the supplement not only supports your horse’s joint health but also aligns with their overall well-being. (IVIS)​ (Florida Veterinary Medical Association).

Pros and Cons of Joint Supplements

Pros:

• Convenience: Supplements are easy to administer and available in various forms.
• Cost-Effective: They can be a more affordable way to maintain joint health over time.
• Non-Invasive: Ideal for those who want to avoid aggressive treatments like injections.

Cons:

• Cost: High-quality supplements can be expensive, and ongoing costs can add up.
• Inconsistent Results: The effectiveness can vary, making it hard to assess their value.
• Not a Cure: Supplements manage symptoms but do not cure joint issues.
• Alternative Treatments: Other options like physical therapy or advanced medical therapies might be more effective but are also more costly.

FDA Regulation and Ensuring Product Quality

Horse joint supplements are not regulated by the FDA, meaning manufacturers are not required to prove the safety or efficacy of their products before marketing them. This lack of regulation places the responsibility on horse owners to make informed choices when selecting supplements.

To ensure they are choosing high-quality products, horse owners can take several proactive steps:

• Look for Third-Party Certifications: Some manufacturers submit their products to independent third-party testing organizations. These certifications can offer additional assurance that the supplement meets certain quality standards and contains the ingredients listed on the label.
• Consult with a Veterinarian: A veterinarian can provide guidance on selecting reputable brands and recommend products based on your horse’s specific needs. They can also help monitor the horse’s response to the supplement and make adjustments as necessary.

By following these guidelines, horse owners can better navigate the unregulated supplement market and choose products that are more likely to be safe and effective for their horses.​ (Florida Veterinary Medical Association).

Below is a helpful YouTube video discussing when to start horses on joint supplements.

FAQs on Horse Joint Supplements

Key Takeaways: Do Joint Supplements Work, or Are They a Waste of Money?

Preliminary research shows that the combination of MSM, glucosamine, chondroitin, hyaluronic acid, Vitamin C, and herbs like Yucca and Devil’s Claw could prevent further joint and cartilage wear-and-tear degradation in old horses. Young horses might also benefit from these supplements as they have preventive and protective effects on their joints.

However, product selection is essential since no two supplements are the same. Besides, what works for one horse may not necessarily work for another.

The FDA does not regulate horse joint supplements, as they are classified as nutraceuticals or food supplements, not drugs. Also, we need more trials and studies to settle the debate about whether horse joint supplements work or are a waste of money.

What is the Best Joint Supplement for Older Horses?

Over the years, I’ve tried various joint supplements for my older horses, including liquid, powder, and wafer forms. My experience has shown that no single type is universally superior; much depends on the individual horse and how they react to the supplement.

Personal Recommendations

Based on my experience, here are my top choices:

• Acti Flex Cox Veterinary Lab Joint Compound (Liquid): This supplement is easy to administer and has shown positive results in improving joint mobility and reducing stiffness in my horses.
• Manna Pro Rapid Flex (Powder): A reliable option for those who prefer powdered supplements, providing essential joint support ingredients.
• Majesty’s Flex Wafers (Wafer): My overall favorite due to their convenience and effectiveness. These wafers combine the “holy trinity of joint care” – MSM, glucosamine, and chondroitin. While not all studies conclusively prove their benefits, many horse owners, including myself, have observed improvements in mobility and quality of life for their horses.

Majesty’s Flex Wafers are also popular for containing Yucca extracts, a powerful anti-inflammatory herb that has helped many of my horses with degenerative joint disease relieve stiffness and pain.

Pros and Cons of Majesty’s Flex Wafers

Pros:

• Minimal waste – one wafer per horse, easy to administer with individual feed.
• Contains ingredients that protect and repair damaged cartilage.
• Improves joint mobility and skin and coat health.

Cons:

• Some picky horses might refuse to eat it.
• A few horses may gain nervous energy due to the molasses and cornmeal content.
• Price fluctuations can be a consideration for long-term use.

Choosing the best joint supplement for your older horse will depend on their specific needs and how they respond to the supplement. It’s crucial to research thoroughly and consult with your veterinarian to find the product that works best for your horse. Remember, what works for one horse may not work for another, so monitoring your horse’s response and adjusting as needed is essential.

What is the best anti-inflammatory for horses?

I like Absorbine ButeLess Support for Inflammatory Response.

Absorbine Bute-Less pellets contain Devil’s Claw, Yucca, and Vitamin B12 as the primary ingredients. These provide powerful inflammation relief to horses without being harsh on their stomachs.

Even lame horses or horses with founder/laminitis were able to show signs of improvement after taking this supplement for just a week!

Horse owners recommend keeping bute less on hand to quickly administer it if a horse is injured. It quickly relieves pain and inflammation and helps get your horse back to normal.

Pros

• Easy to feed
• Quick results
• Gentle on horse’s tummy

Cons

• This is not for pregnant mares and horses with ulcers (as devil’s claw could aggravate ulcers).

Conclusion

Joint supplements for horses offer potential benefits, especially for managing arthritis and improving mobility. However, their effectiveness can vary depending on the quality of the product and your horse’s specific needs. Choosing reputable products, consulting with your veterinarian, and monitoring your horse’s response is essential to ensure the best care.

Before deciding on a supplement, it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian. They can help guide you toward the best options tailored to your horse’s unique requirements, ensuring safety and effectiveness. Professional guidance is key to making informed decisions that benefit your horse’s long-term joint health.

Have you tried joint supplements for your horse? Share your experiences in the comments below, and don’t forget to consult with your vet to find the best solution for your horse’s needs! For more insights, check out our related articles on equine health and wellness.