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The Holistic Horse

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How to Detox Safely

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We hear a lot about detox these days, and a number of products claim to help you do this. But what does it mean to detox exactly and how can you do it safely? 

Detox is short for detoxification, which, scientifically speaking, is defined as the metabolic process by which toxins in the body are changed into less toxic or more readily excretable substances. It’s important to know that the body has its own natural detoxification mechanisms, mainly carried out by the liver and kidneys. However, the lungs, digestive system, lymphatic system, and even the skin all help to rid the body of toxins. 

These detox pathways are always at work, helping to eliminate toxins. However, in some instances, the body can become overburdened by too many toxins and make a person ill. 

Examples of toxins we’re around on a regular basis include:

  • Outdoor air pollutants such as vehicle exhaust, tobacco smoke, and industrial emissions;
  • Indoor air pollutants such as mold, chemicals in carpet or household cleaning products;
  • Drinking water which may contain pesticides, herbicides, heavy metals, and chemicals from agricultural runoff;
  • Foods which can also contain pesticides and heavy metals;
  • Household products such as food containers, cleaning products, or air fresheners;
  • Beauty products such as lotions, makeup, deodorant, etc.

As you likely have gathered, some of these toxins are impossible to avoid. However, you can reduce the amount of toxins you’re exposed to by using water filters, buying organic food, and using natural, chemical-free cleaning and household products. There are many low-toxin skincare and makeup products available as well these days. 

How to Help your Body Detox Safely

When our bodies become “toxic”, it means that our natural mechanisms for ridding ourselves of metabolic waste (which is normal), environmental pollutants,and toxins ingested from a poor diet become greater than what our body can naturally deal with on its own and people become chronically ill.

One of the best ways to support the body’s natural detoxification processes is by eating a healthy diet full of fresh fruits and leafy green vegetables. Again, buy organic whenever you can. Also, limit sugar as much as possible and focus on eating fresh foods as opposed to processed foods which are often full of preservatives. It’s also important to stay hydrated, preferably with filtered water. 

Exercise is also an important part of maintaining those detox pathways, and sweating is actually good for you as it helps to release some of those toxins through the skin. 

In addition to eating healthy, hydrating, and exercising, adding a natural detox supplement such as Pure Bentonite Clay can help to safely remove toxins from the body. Bentonite Clay contains more than 70 essential trace minerals and is known for its drawing abilities, which can help to remove heavy metals and chemicals from the body. 

Detox is more about a change in lifestyle than it is a “quick fix”, but if you follow the above tips, you should be able to gently bring your body back into balance so that your detox pathways can once again function correctly. 

 

Sources

https://nourishedbynutrition.com/how-your-body-detoxes-naturally/

https://www.doctoroz.com/detox-made-safe-and-simple

Natural Pest Control for the Farm

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No one likes pest insects, especially those that bite and might transmit dangerous diseases to our animals, as well as ourselves. But what’s the best solution to this problem? Many products targeted toward these pests, ranging from premise sprays to topicals, are indeed effective in killing insects or thwarting their reproductive process, but at what cost to our safety? 

Traditional pest control products typically use chemicals that, in the long run, can cause harm to your animals, the environment, and even you and your family. One group of ingredients found in fly spray for horses are pyrethroids, which are considered a neurotoxin and, according to the EPA, may have reproductive and developmental toxicity to humans.

And what happens when we spray our animals, pastures, or barns with products containing chemicals such as this? While many pesticides break down quickly, some stick around for a long time. These are known as persistent pesticides, and they can build up in the bodies of animals, as well as in streams, ponds, and other waterways. 

One persistent pesticide is cypermethrin (in the pyrethroid family), commonly found in chemical fly sprays. Cypermethrin stays in the environment for approximately sixteen weeks and is extremely toxic to aquatic life.

Pesticide exposures have been linked to cancer, endocrine disruption, reproduction problems, neurotoxicity, kidney and liver damage, birth defects, as well as developmental changes in many animal species, so it’s best to avoid them whenever you can. 

 

Safer Alternatives

The best way to combat the negative impact of pesticides is to use organic practices around your farm and to support organic agriculture rather than conventional agriculture, which heavily depends on pesticide use. Likewise, using natural alternatives to traditional pest control is also a great way to keep your animals and the environment safe. 

The Holistic Horse has a variety products aimed at controlling different types of pests. Here are a few: 

     

Topper’s Bug Buster All Natural Fly Spray – Peppermint Tingle: This all-natural fly spray includes a blend of essential oils and is safe for both horses and dogs. 

Note: never use products with essential oils on cats. 

Fly Die: An all-natural, safe, non-pathogenic product containing diatomaceous earth and herbs that kill pests without the use of toxic chemicals.

Mosquito Die: A 100% all natural, chemical free product which contains a pest attracting herb. This product kills mosquito larvae before they hatch, thereby disrupting the breeding cycle.

Stall Guard: This product eliminates odor, moisture, and flies for clean odor-free stalls. It’s a 100% natural organic compound that will kill larvae in bedding and manure. 

Flea Guard for dogs and cats: This flea and tick powder contains flea repelling essential oils (for dogs) or flea repelling herbs (for cats). Both products are 100% natural, safe, and effective. These products can also be applied to carpets and animal bedding for maximum results.

Flea and Tick Wellness Oil: A safe and effective topical application for flea control in dogs. This product contains certified organic ingredients and has no side effects, synthetic preservatives, petroleum based ingredients, or harsh chemicals.

 

Wellness Oil - Flea and Tick

Sources

Impacts of Pesticides on Wildlife

Pesticide Use and Wildlife

Bute Alternatives for Horses

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There is no doubt that Western medicine has made some remarkable advances in the health of humans and animals alike. Many of the drugs that have been developed in recent decades have not only helped to save lives, but have also increased the quality of living for many. 

However, that doesn’t mean that prescription drugs don’t come without risks. Unfortunately, many have severe side effects and can easily become overused, especially when people aren’t aware of safer, more natural options. One of the most popular types of drugs used with horses are non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs), and one NSAID in particular—phenylbutazone, or bute, for short—has become the common ‘pill for every equine ill’, with owners administering the drug to their horses for a vast array of reasons.

Bute can certainly be helpful in certain circumstances, but it’s also important to keep in mind that it is a pain reliever, meaning, it merely masks pain for a while. When injury or inflammation occurs in the body, it sends a message to the brain that something is wrong and healing needs to occur. Pain tells the horse to slow down, to rest, and to protect the injury. If we numb that pain and continue to use the horse for the sake of our own enjoyment (as so often happens in the horse world), we’re only going to make the problem worse.

When dealing with chronic equine conditions like arthritis or intermittent lameness, bute and other NSAIDs are not the best option. In fact, multiple studies have shown that bute has a number of negative side effects when used long-term. These include:

  • gastric ulcers;
  • mouth ulcers;
  • right dorsal colitis; and
  • kidney damage.

In some cases, these side effects are deadly. 

The good news is that there are several natural alternatives to bute that can be used on a long-term basis, without the dangerous side effects. Modalities like acupuncture/acupressure or physical therapies such as cold/heat therapy, stretching, or massage are often helpful for chronic pain. There are also several natural supplements that can bring pain relief, making them a good alternative to bute. 

Herbal Alternatives and Nutraceuticals

The Holistic Horse offers several bute alternatives, including: 

Bjute-Natural Pain Relief for Horses provides relief for pain and inflammation without harmful side effects. With turmeric, which contains a powerful anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory and white willow bark, which contains salicylic acid (Mother Nature’s version of Aspirin®), as well as boswellia (frankincense), which has a strong anti-inflammatory effect, “Bjute” is gentle on the stomach and contains no devils claw (research has shown that devil’s claw can also lead to irritation of the stomach and ulcers). This product is also show safe. 

MSM Ultra Pure Powder for Horses reduces inflammation and enhances circulation. This ingredient also assists in the management of lameness issues, arthritis, epiphysitis (inflammation of growth plates most commonly seen in young horses), osteochondritis dissecans (OCD), and developmental orthopedic disease (DOD).

MSM Powder for Horses

Su-Per MSM Blend Powder for Horses provides dramatic improvement and relief for many joint conditions. This product provides all the benefits of MSM but comes in a rice hull and stabilized flaxseed base with natural flavoring. 

 

How to Help Your Nervous Horse

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Is your horse nervous, excitable, or spooky, especially when put in new situations? This is a common complaint of horse owners that often requires a thorough investigation. 

Horses, by nature, are “fight or flight” animals, and they may revert to these instincts when dealing with stressful situations. There could be several reasons as to why your horse is behaving this way, and detecting the source (and working to correct it) is critical.

Horses who suddenly develop nervous habits or “misbehavior” should have a full veterinary evaluation, as pain is an often overlooked source of negative behavior. Additionally, the horse’s diet should be evaluated since imbalances or deficiencies in certain nutrients can contribute to behavior disorders in some instances.

If your horse’s health and diet checks out, then you might move on to implementing some new management strategies. For example, giving your horse an outlet for nervous energy, such as additional turnout time or longeing before riding can help in some instances. In other cases, a horse may benefit from additional training and desensitization from an experienced trainer. 

However, if your horse is still displaying nervous behavior after trying all of the above, it might be time to try a calming supplement.

Calming Supplements

Though there are a variety of these types of supplements on the market, the main goal should be to increase your horse’s focus while encouraging relaxation (not drowsiness). Most calming supplements have a variety of ingredients which may include herbs and specific nutrients. If you show your horse, you will want to make sure you do not use a calming supplement with a prohibited substance.

The Holistic Horse offers Zen Zone-Calming Formula for Horses as part of our signature line of herbal products. This product is show safe. 

Zen-Zone contains the following organic ingredients: 

Organic Chastetree: (Vitex agnus castus) – supports normal function of the pituitary gland by allowing it to thrive and perform properly; helps to maintain dopamine levels in the blood and supports regulation of both the pituitary and adrenal glands.

Organic Cinnamon (Cassia): The compound and main ingredient MHCP found in cinnamon bark, has been found in numerous studies to mimic the effects of insulin to lower blood sugar (glucose). Provides digestive and metabolic support.

Organic Stevia: A natural sweetener, anti bacterial, anti oxidant; promotes proper digestion; contains potassium zinc, magnesium and vitamin B3.

Organic Wood Betony: Natural sedative used for relaxation and anxiety.

Thiamine Mononitrate: Vitamin B1, important in carbohydrate metabolism and in the transmission of impulses along the nerves.

Inositol: Vitamin B complex family member (B8); found in every cell in the body; assists the central nervous system improving nerve function and has a natural calming effect. It helps breakdown and redistribute body fat and maintain proper levels of the brain’s neurotransmitters.

Magnesium Glycinate: Naturally occurring essential mineral that is important for many systems in the body, including bone formation, for muscles (relaxer), and nerves.

Calming supplements can be helpful for horses with nervous temperaments. Just make sure you have ruled out training issues, pain, and nutritional deficiencies before using them. 

 

Sources

https://thehorse.com/186763/taking-the-edge-off-calming-supplements-for-horses/

https://practicalhorsemanmag.com/health-archive/calming-aids

Healthy Soil, Healthy Garden

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Sometimes, we can do our best to create a beautiful flower or vegetable garden, and no matter how much we water, pluck, and tend to it, things just don’t turn out the way we want. Believe it or not, this is more likely to be due to poor soil than a lack of gardening skills. 

The key to any successful garden is starting with healthy soil. When soil has the nutrients it needs, it is then able to support healthy, beautiful plants that are less prone to pests and disease. However, having healthy soil isn’t as simple as buying a few bags of fertilizer. There’s a little more to it than that.

Several key components of healthy soil include:

Good Texture

Good gardening soil should be crumbly and soft. Loam is the best soil to use due to its nice, crumbly texture. If you have clay or sandy soil, however, you can make some improvements in order to make them work for your garden. 

The Right pH

Your soil’s pH level can make or break your garden since it will affect the minerals your plants receive. In order to produce healthy plants, your soil needs to be as close to neutral as you can get it. You can assess the pH level of your soil with a simple test and your local county extension office can help with this. Your results will come with recommendations for either increasing or decreasing the acidity of your soil (such as applying lime or sulfur).

Organic Matter

Organic matter is simply dead plant or animal material that adds nutrients into your soil as it continues to decompose. Organic matter will help to improve your soil’s texture, it’s ability to aerate, as well as its ability to retain and drain moisture. Adding organic matter is the best way to improve any type of soil and this can be done by applying compost as well as ingredients like coffee grounds, grass clippings, autumn leaves, or aged manure. 

Applying OST-Organic Soil Treatment is also a great way to replace nutrients and minerals that have been depleted from your soil without using manmade chemicals. 

Making Compost

Every successful garden needs compost which will improve soil structure, provide nutrients for plants, and stimulate beneficial organisms in the soil. Compost can consist of a variety of discarded organic matter, but it’s best to include both brown (high carbon) and green (high nitrogen) materials such as:

Brown

  • straw
  • dry leaves
  • corn cobs
  • sawdust or wood shavings

Green

  • eggshells
  • coffee grounds
  • kitchen scraps
  • fresh weeds

Mix your compost at the ratio of at least 3 parts brown to 1 part green matter and keep compost in an aerated container outdoors. Covering your compost to increase heat and turning it every 3-5 days will help to speed up the decompisition process. You can also add EcoGuard-Compost Starter, which can cut composting time by 50% or more.

Gardening doesn’t have to be difficult, so long as you start out with healthy soil, and though achieving this takes a little work, the results will be well worth it!

 

Sources

https://www.thespruce.com/healthy-soil-and-how-to-make-it-2539853

https://www.gardeners.com/how-to/all-about-composting/5061.html

Nutritional Support for Equine Allergies

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Spring is often known as “allergy season”, thanks to mold and pollen that tend to rise during this warmer, wetter time of year. And unfortunately, we, humans, aren’t the only ones prone to allergies; horses can suffer from them as well.

For horses, allergies typically manifest in the skin or lungs, but they can also affect the digestive system. Traditional allergy treatments often include antihistamines or steroids that work to treat the allergy symptoms, but unfortunately, these medicines don’t get to the root cause of the problem.

According to holistic medicine, allergies result from an imbalance within the immune system and are caused by a hypersensitive state that develops because of this imbalance; certain allergens are just the trigger that set off a reaction. 

Holistic medicine also aims to get to the root of the problem and restore balance within the immune system. Sometimes, the allergy symptoms can be eliminated, but in other circumstances, they can only be managed.

Nutrition is one of the best ways to address allergies (as well as many other issues) in horses, but the key with any holistic allergy treatment is sticking with it, as it may take up to a year or more to see results.

 

What to Stop Feeding

For skin allergies, many nutritionists and holistic practitioners recommend eliminating sweet feeds and high-protein feeds as they can contribute to inflammation. Feeds with molasses, sugar, or corn should be the first to go. Another ingredient to eliminate is corn oil or any other vegetable oil which is high in omega 6 content, as these are also pro-inflammatory.

For lung allergies such as heaves, eliminating dust and mold is crucial. This could mean avoiding dusty feeds and hay (especially round bales) and also possibly soaking hay or feed to eliminate dust.

 

What to Start Feeding

The Holistic Horse offers several supplements that can help support the immune system and provide nutritional support for allergies:

  • Flaxseed: The high omega 3 content present in flaxseed can help reduce inflammation and strengthen the immune system. Flaxseed is especially helpful for skin allergies.

 

  • Allergex—Allergy Support for Horses: This herbal formula is part of our signature organic line created by an equine veterinarian specializing in endocrinology, herbs, and nutrition. Allergex addresses the underlying immune system with Echinacea while calming and relaxing your horse’s mind with Inositol, a B-Vitamin derivative, and Magnesium. Nettle and Burdock address allergic skin processes directly and Eyebright assists with respiratory reactions and allergies. (Note: This formula is show safe.)

 


  • Breezee—Respiratory Support for Horses    : Also from our signature organic line, Breezee addresses respiratoryallergies in horses, reducing inflammation of the airways with Thyme, bronchial contraction with Mullein and Lobelia, and mucus with Elecampane and Peppermint. To assist the immune system, Astralagus has been added to the formula. (Note: Withdraw this supplement 48 hours before competition. Do not use on pregnant or lactating mares.)

 

  • Icelandic Organic Kelp: Containing 60 trace minerals, micro nutrients, and amino acids as well as many natural vitamins, kelp can help boost the immune system, balance hormones, and support the endocrine system–all important for horses with allergies.

 

  • Bee Pollen: Interestingly enough, bee pollen can be beneficial for horses with allergies since it strengthens the immune system and is also a great source of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids and other nutrients.

Allergex - Allergy support for Horses

The Benefits of Cranberry Powder (For You and Your Pet)

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Cranberries are a native fruit to North America, belonging to the same family as the bilberry and blueberry, and while these tart, red berries have become a traditional and tasty Thanksgiving side dish, did you know that they also contain several health benefits and are often used medicinally as well? 

Historically, Native Americans used cranberries to treat bladder and kidney disease, and early English settlers used them to treat poor appetite, stomach complaints, blood disorders, and scurvy.

Through modern science, we now know that cranberries are packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and antibacterial compounds, and today, cranberry supplements are still commonly used to help treat certain bladder conditions. However, cranberry supplements can also help to support cardiovascular and gastrointestinal health, and they may even play a role in preventing cancer.

A few other conditions that cranberries may help prevent or manage include:

  • diabetes;
  • diarrhea;
  • gout;
  • gum disease;
  • tooth decay;
  • peptic ulcers; and
  • yeast infections.

Urinary Tract Infections and Prostate Health

Cranberries contain compounds called proanthocyanidins which prevent E. coli bacteria from attaching to the lining of the urethra and bladder, and therefore reduce the chance of infection. In fact, human studies have shown that taking cranberry pills for two or more months can significantly reduce the frequency of UTIs in women. 

According to another study, cranberry powder may also help with symptoms of lower urinary tract problems for men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Cranberries act as a natural acidifier that help to prevent alkaline urinary calculi (bladder stones) and the powder form can be taken not only by people, but also fed to horses, cats, and dogs for the same purposes. 

Side Effects of Cranberry Supplements

It’s important to note that cranberry supplements may increase the effects of certain blood-thinning medications or supplements, so it’s important to avoid taking cranberry supplements if you take this type of medication. Anyone with diabetes, kidney stones, or blood clotting disorders should also consult their doctor before using a cranberry supplement. 

Cranberry Powder for Animals

Our cranberry powder is a dried, pure, human-grade product that can be taken by people or given to animals. When administering this product, we recommend starting with a  small amount and then working your way up to the recommended dose. 

Here are the recommended dosages for our product:

Small cats and dogs up to 30 lbs (6 weeks of age and over): Feed 1/4 teaspoon twice per day sprinkled in food.

Large Dogs 51 to 75 lbs: Feed 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon twice per day in food.

X-Large Dogs over 76 lbs: Feed 3/4 teaspoon twice per day in food.

Horses: 1000 lbs. or more 1–3 tablespoons per day mixed in feed.

People: 1/4 teaspoon 3 times per day in filtered water (3/4 teaspoon daily).

Note: Do not feed to cranberry powder to cats with a urinary pH below 6.6. Consult with your veterinarian for a urinalysis.

 

Sources

The Benefits and Uses of Cranberry

What to Know About Cranberries

Treating Common Skin Conditions in Dogs & Cats

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Like us, our pets can develop certain skin conditions which may lead to itching, redness, inflammation, and hair loss. Knowing how to identify these conditions, as well as how to treat them, is important for maintaining our pets’ health and happiness. Let’s start with a description of the most common conditions you’ll find in dogs and cats and then we’ll get to natural treatment options. 

Ringworm

Identified by its circular shape, ringworm is often mistaken for a parasite, but it’s actually a fungal infection of the skin. Ringworm often causes dry, scaly skin, hair loss, and inflammation in the immediate area. Be aware that this condition is contagious to humans, so avoid directly touching the area, if possible, and wash your hands thoroughly after handling your infected pet. 

Allergic Dermatitis

Both dogs and cats can develop allergies to certain foods, pollen, mold, and dust, which may manifest as an itchy rash, redness, or ear/skin infections. 

Flea Allergies

Fleas can also cause allergic reactions, causing the skin to become irritated, red, and itchy. Flea allergies may cause your pet’s hair to fall out, become discolored, or brittle.

Yeast Infection

Yeast infections can cause itchy, inflamed skin and often affects the ears, paws, and folds (in breeds such as pugs or Shar-Peis).

Hotspots

Hotspots are caused by excessive licking, biting, or scratching on a particular part of the body and are often caused by an underlying condition (such as allergies). Hot spots can vary in size and are often red and swollen. If left untreated, they may begin to ooze pus or a watery discharge. Hotspots are more common in dogs, and the hair may fall out (or be chewed out) as a result. 

Mange

This is another condition that is more common in dogs than cats, and it leads to itching, redness, and hair loss. There are two types of mange in pets: sarcoptic (also known as scabies) and demodectic. Both, however, are caused by mites. Sarcoptic mange is very itchy and highly contagious to other pets as well as humans. Demodectic mange is not contagious in dogs, but there is a form of demodectic mange in cats that is contagious. 

Natural Treatments for Pet Skin Conditions

When it comes to treating many skin conditions in dogs and cats—especially those that are allergic in nature—the first thing you will want to consider is diet. A species appropriate diet without additives like corn or soy can make a big difference in the health of the skin and hair coat. Also, adding something like our Organic Flaxseed for Cats and Dogs or Immune Boost for dogs or cats, can be beneficial.

As far as natural products go, ParaSpray is great for ringworm, mange, fungal and bacterial infections, as well as cuts and abrasions, and Ears All Right™ can be used to gently clean and moisturize the ears, soothing itchy and red skin. 

Earthbath Tea Tree & Aloe Shampoo has soothing properties, great for dogs with skin allergies (not recommended for cats since it contains essential oils). Additionally, FleaGuard for cats and dogs or Flea and Tick Dog Wellness Oil can help treat the source of the problem if fleas are to blame.

 

Sources

Common Skin Problems in Dogs and How Your Veterinarian Can Help

Managing Navicular Syndrome

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Navicular syndrome is a diagnosis no horse owner likes to hear, and though it can be quite devastating in some cases, the good news is that navicular can be managed; it all comes down to proper hoof care, good horse management practices, and nutrition.

What is Navicular Syndrome Exactly?

Navicular syndrome can occur in one limb, but it most commonly affects both front feet. To get an idea of where the problem originates, here’s a little anatomy inside the hoof: the navicular bone is a small, flattened bone situated directly behind the coffin joint. It’s attached to the coffin bone by the impar ligament and to the pastern joint by the suspensory ligaments. The deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT) runs over the lower surface of the navicular bone, and between the DDFT and the navicular bone is a small pocket of fluid known as the navicular bursa. Directly beneath the navicular bone is the digital cushion.

While navicular syndrome was once blamed on remodeling of the navicular bone, researchers now believe the syndrome may involve any of the above mentioned structures in the foot. For example, the horse may have damage in the navicular bursa, DDFT, collateral ligament, or the coffin joint and it may still be referred to as ‘navicular syndrome’. 

Diagnosing and Managing Navicular Syndrome

Navicular is often suspected when a horse displays lameness in both front feet, (especially when lunged in a circle or moving over hard ground), shows pain in the back of the hoof, moves with a shortened stride, and/or has radiographic changes to the navicular bone. It appears to be more common in horses with poor hoof conformation (or poor trimming/shoeing practices) related to long toes and low heels. Due to pain in the back of the foot, navicular horses will often have toe-first landings rather than the desired heel first landings. 

When it comes to hoof care for navicular horses, there are two main schools of thought: one focuses on using corrective shoeing like egg bars, while the other uses a series of barefoot trims to gradually shorten both the toe and heel and get the frog and digital cushion functional again. Using hoof boots and pads can be beneficial in the latter process as well. We recommend finding a good barefoot hoof care practitioner and going the barefoot route!

Nutrition and weight management is also important for horses with navicular syndrome as excess weight adds more strain on the musculoskeletal system and hooves. Vitamins and minerals play a critical role in hoof health, so supplementing with something like Icelandic Organic Kelp can ensure those needs are being met. 

Additionally, anti-inflammatory and pain relieving products like Herbiflex or Su-Per Glucosamine powder may be beneficial as well. For acute pain relief, we recommend Bjute instead of phenylbutazone, which causes GI distress if given for an extended period of time. 

Though it may be tempting to keep a navicular horse stalled, turnout is best not only for exercise, but to also get the horse using the back of his feet again (assuming proper hoof care measures have been taken).

 

Sources

Navicular Syndrome in Horses

Podotrochlosis: ‘Navicular’ is No Longer the End of the Road for Horses

Joint Care for Farm Animals

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Many farm animals are living long and healthy lives these days, but as they age, there comes a point in time when joints begin to deteriorate and keeping your animal comfortable and also productive, in some cases, becomes important.

If you notice your middle-aged or older animals showing lameness in one or more limbs, moving more slowly, or having trouble getting up and down when no apparent injury is detected, osteoarthritis (also known as degenerative joint disease) is likely to blame. This condition can also affect your animal’s appetite, heart rate, and respiratory rate, as pain can increase cortisol levels. 

When dealing with arthritis, early intervention is best, and maybe it comes as no surprise that nutrition can play a critical role in both preventing and treating arthritis. Ensuring your farm animals receive a species-appropriate diet with adequate vitamins and minerals, monitoring body condition to keep them at a healthy weight, and supplementing with high-quality herbs and ingredients can all make a difference. 

Note: many farm animals are susceptible to bacterial forms of arthritis, as well, but for the purposes of this blog post, we’ll stick with age-related osteoarthritis which is often manageable. Below, you’ll find information on how osteoarthritis affects specific farm animals, as well as supplements we offer to both prevent and manage the condition. 

Cattle

Arthritic pain in dairy cows can decrease milk production and also affect fertility in older breeding stock. Cattle may have trouble getting up and down and may also be reluctant to move. Consider the following products we offer for cattle:

Goats

Older goats are also prone to osteoarthritis, and properly managing your their living space is important. A soft floor made from sand or straw is best, as is a controlled diet, and avoiding overcrowding in goat pens and pastures.

Also, avoid diets high in calcium, as this can lead to joint degeneration. Many commercial goat feeds are targeted toward the dairy goat—not males or non-lactating females, so for pet or working goats, consider mixing your own feed with a lower calcium content. For complete joint care, supplementing with Glucosamine Powder for Goats and/or MSM Blend Powder for Goats is recommended.

 

Llamas/Alpacas

Due to their long life span, llamas and alpacas are especially prone to arthritis and joint problems. Older animals may need special bedding such as short fibered straw or wood shavings in their sleep areas to keep them more comfortable.

Also be aware that older llamas and alpacas can develop dropped pasterns, which can lead to chronic pain and discomfort, especially during cold weather. For prevention and treatment of arthritis in llamas and alpacas, consider the following products: 

Sheep

Like other types of livestock, older sheep can suffer from joint deterioration and arthritis, so consider adding Su-Per MSM Powder for Sheep and/or Su-Per Glucosamine Powder for Sheep to their diet.

 

 

Sources

Arthritis in Goats (Goat-Link)

Arthritis in Goats (County Gazette)

Arthritis in Sheep

Special Care Recommendations for Older Alpacas

Special Care Recommendations for Older Llamas