Joint Supplements for Horses: Do They Really Work?

Last updated: September 17, 2024

By: Miles HenryFact Checked

Just like us, horses can develop health issues as they age, and joint problems often top the list. Many horse owners, including myself, are turning to equine joint supplements as a potentially gentler alternative to traditional medications to address joint issues.

But do these supplements work? Let’s explore the effectiveness of joint supplements for horses and some critical considerations.

Effectiveness of Joint Supplements: A Closer Look

Joint supplements are widely used in the equine industry to manage arthritis symptoms and support overall joint health. While they aren’t a cure-all, they can offer relief and improve your horse’s quality of life. However, their effectiveness varies depending on several factors, including:

• The quality of the product
• The specific formulation and ingredients
• The individual needs of your horse

Let’s take a closer look at some key ingredients commonly found in joint supplements:

Key Ingredients in Joint Supplements

1. Glucosamine:

• Role: A natural compound vital for maintaining and repairing joint cartilage.
• Effectiveness: Research suggests its bioavailability in horses is low, potentially limiting its effectiveness when taken orally alone. It may be more beneficial when combined with other supportive ingredients. A study published in the Journal of Equine Veterinary Science found that glucosamine combined with chondroitin sulfate may help improve lameness and joint function in horses with osteoarthritis.

2. Chondroitin:

• Role: Works with glucosamine to protect cartilage, retain water for lubrication, and inhibit enzymes that break down cartilage.
• Effectiveness: The combination of glucosamine and chondroitin may be more effective than administering them alone.

3. MSM (Methyl-sulfonyl-methane):

• Role: A sulfur compound with anti-inflammatory properties that supports connective tissues and may help reduce joint pain and improve mobility, especially for horses with arthritis.
• Effectiveness: Well-documented anti-inflammatory benefits, mainly when used with glucosamine and chondroitin. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) provides information on MSM’s potential benefits for joint health.

Beyond the “Big Three”: Other Beneficial Ingredients:

• Hyaluronic Acid: A natural component of joint fluid that acts as a lubricant and shock absorber. Supplements may help replenish levels in aging or injured joints. The Equine Veterinary Journal published a study highlighting the positive effects of hyaluronic acid on cartilage metabolism in horses.
• Avocado/Soybean Unsaponifiables (ASU): May help slow cartilage breakdown and stimulate new cartilage growth
• Herbs (e.g., Devil’s Claw, Yucca): Herbs (e.g., Devil’s Claw, Yucca): Some herbs have anti-inflammatory properties and may offer additional pain relief. However, supplements and herbs, such as Devil’s Claw, are unsuitable for pregnant mares and horses with ulcers, as Devil’s Claw could aggravate ulcers.

Do Joint Supplements Work?

The million-dollar question! While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, research and anecdotal evidence suggest that joint supplements can be beneficial for many horses, particularly when:

• High-quality products are used: Look for reputable brands with third-party certifications and clear ingredient lists
• The supplement is tailored to the horse’s needs: Consider age, activity level, and specific joint issues
• Supplements are used consistently: It often takes several weeks to see noticeable results.
• They are part of a comprehensive management plan: Combining supplements with other therapies like controlled exercise and proper hoof care can maximize their benefits.

Remember, it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian before starting any new supplement regimen. They can help you choose the right product and dosage for your horse’s needs and monitor their progress. (Florida Veterinary Medical Association)

Pros and Cons of Joint Supplements for Horses:

Pros:

• Convenience: Easy to administer, available in various forms (powders, pellets, liquids).
• Non-invasive: A gentler alternative to medications or injections, especially for long-term management
• Potential cost-effectiveness: Can be more affordable than ongoing veterinary treatments.

Cons:

• Variable results: Effectiveness can differ based on the product and individual horse.
• Not a cure: Supplements manage symptoms, not underlying causes of joint issues.
• Can be expensive: High-quality supplements can add up over time.
• Lack of FDA regulation: Choosing reputable brands and consulting your vet is essential.

Choosing the Right Joint Supplement for Your Horse

Selecting the best joint supplement for your horse is not a one-size-fits-all decision. It requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure the chosen product aligns with your horse’s individual needs and health goals. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors to keep in mind:

• Your Horse’s Age and Activity Level: The demands placed on a horse’s joints vary significantly depending on their age and activity level. A young, active horse engaged in strenuous activities may require a different supplement formulation than a senior horse primarily used for leisurely trail rides. Consider your horse’s specific needs and choose a supplement that appropriately supports their joints.
• Specific Joint Issues or Concerns: If your horse has been diagnosed with a joint condition, such as osteoarthritis or a previous injury, look for supplements targeting those specific concerns. Some supplements may contain additional ingredients, like hyaluronic acid or ASU, that offer targeted support for specific joint issues.
• Ingredients and Their Quality: Carefully review the ingredient list of any joint supplement you’re considering. Look for products that contain a combination of key ingredients, such as glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM, which have been shown to support joint health. Also, prioritize supplements from reputable manufacturers that use high-quality ingredients and follow good manufacturing practices.
• Third-Party Certifications: Independent third-party certifications, like those from the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC), can offer additional assurance that the supplement meets stringent quality standards and contains the ingredients listed on the label. Look for these certifications when selecting a product.
• Your Veterinarian’s Recommendations: It’s always best to consult your veterinarian before starting your horse on any new supplement. They can assess your horse’s needs, recommend suitable products, and advise on appropriate dosages.

By considering these factors and working closely with your veterinarian, you can select a joint supplement that offers the best possible support for your horse’s joint health and overall well-being.

Remember, the goal is to choose a supplement that complements your horse’s existing care plan and contributes to their long-term comfort and mobility.

My Personal Recommendations

Over the years, I’ve tried numerous joint supplements for my horses, and while individual results can vary, I’ve found a few to be particularly effective. Please note that these are my recommendations based on my own experiences. Always consult with your veterinarian before starting any new supplement.

• ActiFlex Senior Joint Solution: This comprehensive formula contains glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and hyaluronic acid, providing multi-faceted support for aging joints.
• SmartPak SmartFlex Senior Pellets: Another well-rounded option, these pellets offer a blend of key ingredients for joint health and comfort.
• Platinum Performance CJ: This premium supplement boasts a unique blend of ingredients, including glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, hyaluronic acid, and omega-3 fatty acids, along with additional nutrients to support overall health.

My favorite anti-inflammatory supplements 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 improved after taking this supplement for a week!

Horse owners recommend keeping Buteless 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).

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 makes horse owners responsible for making 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 assurance that the supplement meets certain quality standards and contains the ingredients listed on the label. The National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) is one such organization that provides quality assurance for animal supplements.
• Consult with a Veterinarian: A veterinarian can guide 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 more likely to be safe and effective for their horses.​

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.

It’s important to remember that the FDA does not regulate horse joint supplements, as they fall under the category of 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.

Conclusion

Joint supplements offer a potential avenue for supporting your horse’s joint health and managing arthritis symptoms. However, it’s essential to remember that 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 crucial to ensuring the best care.

Before deciding on a supplement, schedule a consultation 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? We’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below! Share your stories, successes, and any questions you may have.