Which Horses Can Benefit from Joint Supplements?

Proactive joint support through a daily supplement can benefit horses whether they are young or seniors, in intense work or lightly hacked, have a joint injury or disease, or simply have normal wear and tear. This type of supplement is designed to provide a steady supply of key ingredients – such as collagen, glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, HA, and MSM –to help maintain healthy joints.

Learn when to start your horse on joint supplements by watching this Ask the Vet video.

Effectiveness of Joint Supplements

There have been numerous studies on the effectiveness of ingredients in joint supplements for horses. Here are a few highlights to learn more:

• Glucosamine : Pivotal in the production and protection of joints, it’s a building block of chondroitin sulfate that’s been shown to inhibit the enzymes that break down cartilage.
• Chondroitin Sulfate: Stimulates the production of new cartilage while inhibiting enzymes that break down cartilage. Research has shown more beneficial effects when used in combination with glucosamine.
• Hyaluronic Acid (HA) : An integral part of joint cartilage and fluid that provides lubrication between surfaces and shock absorption.
• MSM: Supports a normal response to inflammation and has been shown to help reduce the wear and tear of joint tissues caused by exercise.
• Collagen: The primary structural protein in connective tissue throughout your horse’s body. Collagen supports a normal inflammatory response, addresses cartilage deterioration, and helps manage discomfort associated with exercise.

Other noteworthy ingredients include vitamin C, resveratrol, avocado/soybean unsaponifiables (ASU), silica, devil’s claw, super oxide dismutase, and more. Learn about these specific ingredients in-depth by checking out our Supplement Ingredient Glossary.

Every horse is unique, and their response to joint supplements may vary. Some horses may quickly show improvements in mobility in comfort while it may take a few weeks for others. We recommend providing the supplement for 4-8 weeks to determine if it’s providing the amount of support you were hoping for, as well as working with your vet to determine to best supplement for his specific needs.

Shopping for a Joint Supplement for Your Horse

SmartPak carries a large selection of joint supplements designed for all types of horses from top brands. We offer supplements in liquid, pellet, powder and other forms to best fit your horse’s feed program. Many of our supplements are backed by research and have hundreds of reviews from real horse owners.

Finding the right joint supplement for your horse might feel overwhelming. As real riders and horse owners, we understand and have a team of Horse Health Experts to help you find the best option with a free supplement consultation. Or you can always call, chat online, or text our Customer Care Team with any questions.