Introduction

If you’re anything like us, your horse’s wellbeing is your top priority. Whether they’re a competition champion or your trusty hacking partner, keeping them healthy, happy, and active is non-negotiable. But here’s the truth—horses are athletes, and just like us, their joints can take a beating over time. From the wear and tear of daily movement to the added strain of training or ageing, your horse’s joints might need a little extra TLC.

That’s where joint supplements come into play. As experts in equine wellness, we’ve spent years studying the signs of joint discomfort in horses and developing targeted solutions to keep them at their best. But how can you tell if your horse is ready for a joint supplement? Let’s dive into the key signs and what you can do to ensure your equine partner is always moving freely and comfortably.

Key Signs Your Horse Might Need Joint Supplements

Here are the most common signs that your horse’s joints might need support:

1. Stiffness After Rest: Does your horse seem stiff or reluctant to move after standing still for a while? This could indicate joint stiffness, particularly in ageing horses.

2. Reduced Performance: If your horse isn’t jumping as high, cantering as smoothly, or maintaining their usual enthusiasm for work, joint discomfort might be holding them back.

3. Difficulty with Transitions: Struggling to shift between gaits or refusing to pick up the correct lead can signal joint pain or reduced range of motion.

4. Swelling or Heat Around Joints: This is a red flag for inflammation. Always check your horse’s knees, hocks, and fetlocks for unusual swelling or warmth after exercise.

5. Reluctance to Move or Exercise: If your horse seems hesitant to move forward, is slower than usual, or outright refuses to work, they might be trying to tell you something’s wrong with their joints.

6. Uneven Gait or Lameness: Even subtle lameness or irregular movement could point to joint discomfort. It’s always best to have a vet assess any noticeable changes in gait.

7. Behavioural Changes: Horses in pain may become grumpy, unwilling under saddle, or harder to handle. Joint discomfort can sometimes be the culprit behind these shifts in behaviour.

Why Joint Health Matters

A horse’s joints are the unsung heroes of their body. They’re responsible for absorbing shock, enabling movement, and supporting the weight of their entire frame. Over time, factors like ageing, repetitive stress, poor conformation, or even inadequate nutrition can wear down the cartilage and fluid that keep their joints cushioned and mobile.

Joint problems don’t just limit performance—they can significantly impact your horse’s quality of life. And while you can’t completely stop the ageing process or the effects of years of hard work, you can support their joints with the right care and supplements.

How Do Joint Supplements Help?

Joint supplements are designed to support and maintain joint health by providing key nutrients that aid in cartilage repair, reduce inflammation, and promote lubrication.

Our supplements, GYMNAST Joint Blend and SUPER SOUND Joint Mobility Blend, are meticulously formulated with natural ingredients to provide your horse with the ultimate joint support. Whether they’re an ageing companion or an active competitor, these blends are designed to keep their joints in tip-top shape.

When Should You Start Using Joint Supplements?

Ideally, joint supplements should be part of a proactive care plan. Don’t wait until your horse is visibly struggling to act. Here’s when to consider starting:

• Ageing Horses: As horses age, cartilage naturally wears down, increasing the risk of stiffness and arthritis.
• Horses in Regular Training: Jumpers, eventers, dressage horses, and others in intensive work are more likely to experience joint stress.
• Post-Injury: If your horse has had a joint injury, supplements can aid recovery and prevent further damage.
• Preventative Care: Even young horses can benefit from joint supplements, especially if they’re predisposed to joint issues due to genetics or conformation.

FAQs

1. How long does it take for joint supplements to work?
Joint supplements aren’t a quick fix—it can take 4-8 weeks to notice improvements. Consistency is key, so stick to the recommended dosage for the best results.

2. Can I give joint supplements alongside other supplements?
Yes, but always check the ingredients to avoid over-supplementing. Our GYMNAST and SUPER SOUND blends are designed to complement a balanced diet.

3. Are joint supplements safe for competition horses?
Absolutely. Our products are FEI-compliant, meaning they’re safe for horses competing under strict anti-doping regulations.

4. Can I give joint supplements to a young horse?
Yes! Starting early can help prevent future joint issues, especially for young horses in training or with conformation challenges.

5. Do I still need a vet if I use joint supplements?
Yes. Supplements are a great tool, but they’re not a replacement for professional veterinary care. Always consult your vet if you notice signs of joint discomfort.

Conclusion

Your horse’s joints are the foundation of their mobility, comfort, and performance. Recognising the early signs of joint discomfort and taking proactive steps—like introducing joint supplements—can make all the difference in their long-term health.

With GYMNAST and SUPER SOUND, you’re not just addressing symptoms; you’re investing in your horse’s future. Whether they’re galloping across fields or tackling a tough course, these supplements are designed to keep them moving with ease.

So, don’t wait until stiffness or discomfort slows your horse down. Pay attention to the signs, consult your vet when needed, and give your equine partner the support they deserve. After all, a happy horse is a healthy horse—and that’s something we can all agree on.

DISCLAIMER: This blog is informational only. We do not intend to treat, cure or diagnose any condition or disease.