Madalyn Ward, DVM shares her answers to specific holistic horse care questions from clients. To see more questions and answers on real holistic horse care situations check out our Holistic Horsekeeping and Horse Harmony Facebook pages.

Q – How often should a 25 year old thoroughbred gelding in excellent condition get his teeth floated? Had it done last 2 years ago. Vet pushing for every year.

A – If your horse is doing well I would not float him. Watch for signs of difficulty chewing or weight loss as a sign his teeth need to be checked.

Q – Looking for direction to take with my John mule that was just tested for Cushing’s…..it came back positive. No insulin issues…thank goodness. He is 25 and no feet issues, other than I’m dealing with Seedy Toe on his right front hoof. I have been treating that with tea tree oil…the vet has removed all the infection I hope, he now has a shoe on and I keep an Easy Boot on him with gauze covering the area, until I can see some growth. Hasn’t taken one lame step, even though my vet has drilled down to the coffin bone. Anyway I’m looking to do my best by him, what do you suggest for a diet…I know low sugar….I was giving him 1/3 cup of Cyrpto, hope I spelled that right and 1 pill from the vet for Cushing’s. Do you suggest a supplement?

A – The medication from your vet should help your mule feel much better. The crypto feed is high in starch but you are feeding a very small amount of it so I think you are fine. You may also want to add 1/4 cup chia seeds for extra antioxidant support.

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