Companion Animals

Companion Horse Arthritis Pain Management

Management of equine arthritis with modern pain management approaches including joint injections and medication.

Key Facts

Arthritis affects the majority of older horses and is a leading welfare concern
Joint injections with corticosteroids and hyaluronan reduce inflammation and pain
Meloxicam and phenylbutazone are effective NSAIDs for equine arthritis pain
New biological treatments including frunevetmab are in development for horses
Exercise management and appropriate workload maintain joint function in arthritic horses

Welfare Considerations

Arthritis causes chronic pain in horses that is often undertreated, and modern pain management approaches including joint injections significantly improve welfare outcomes.

What You Can Do

Have older horses assessed for arthritis at regular veterinary check-ups
Ask your vet about joint injection options for horses with joint pain
Adjust workload to match your horse's arthritis severity under veterinary guidance