Arthritis
Using bute • Joint injections • Exercise support • Joint supplements
My 15-year-old Thoroughbred Q mare is starting to show stiffness and puffiness around her hocks and fetlocks. I don’t like the thought of her being in any pain. Can I manage this with bute? If so, how would it work and what are the pros and cons? Shirley Groves, Ipswich
Caroline says... The first consideration in this case is to accurately diagnose the cause of the stiffness and puffiness. There are a number of different reasons why horses might present with these clinical signs, including muscle soreness, laminitis and infectious causes. So, in the first instance, I would advise you to contact your vet so that they can carry out a full clinical examination of your mare. This may include nerve blocks if lameness can be identified, and possibly taking radiographs (X-rays) too.
Arthritis diagnosis
If arthritis of the hocks and fetlocks is diagnosed, it is perfectly acceptable to manage the condition with bute. Bute can be administered intravenously or orally as a paste/powder, but it’s usually given by the owner orally. Initially your horse may be prescribed bute twice daily in order to reach a therapeutic dose more quickly. This may then be reduced to once a day or alternate days to keep her on the lowest effective dose. It’s important to combine this approach with other strategies to keep your mare comfortable and to try to limit progression of the arthritic process. Measures may include increased exercise, avoiding long periods standing in the stable and the use of neutraceuticals or other medications.
Pros of bute
Minimally invasive approach
Relatively cheap
Easy to administer
Cons
Unwanted reduction of some of the protective roles that inflammation plays in the body
Increased susceptibility to ulcers
Increased susceptibility to kidney disease