The Basics of Equine
Joint Supplements

Whether you're looking for a joint supplement to support a hard-working performance horse or an older horse that gets achy and stiff, finding the right one in the vast sea of options can be a bit overwhelming. To help you in your search, we have broken down the ingredients commonly used in equine joint supplements and picked a few of our favorites that we know your horse will thrive on!

Glucosamine:

Glucosamine is a common ingredient in almost all joint supplements. Naturally found in the body, it supports cartilage production while also inhibiting cartilage breakdown caused by inflammation.

Chondroitin:

Chondroitin is another common ingredient in joint supplements and is often paired with glucosamine, as they have been shown to be most effective when supplemented together. Similar in action, chondroitin supports the production of cartilage while slowing breakdown and inhibiting inflammation.

MSM:

MSM, or Methylsulfonylmethane, is an organic sulfur compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties within joints, while also supporting connective tissues.

Hyaluronic Acid:

Hyaluronic acid (HA) can be found in both articular cartilage and synovial fluid, acting as a natural lubricator that helps keep joints moving freely and comfortably. It is most effective when injected directly into joints, but has shown some positive impact when fed orally as well.

Yucca and Devil's Claw:

Yucca and Devil's Claw are herbal supplements thought to provide relief from joint pain with anti-inflammatory properties. However, the mechanism is not understood and there are few studies in horses.

Note for Competitive Horses: We recommend checking your organization's rulebook for current restrictions on Devil's Claw. It is not legal for use under USEF or FEI.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids:

Omega-3 fatty acids are an extremely versatile supplement, with benefits ranging from skin and coat health to joint support. Common sources are flaxseeds, flaxseed oil, soybean oil, or fish oil. Note that plants such as flaxseed contain ALA (alpha-linoleic-acid) that has to be converted to EPA and DHA in the body, while fish oil is a direct source of these inflammation-fighting fatty acids.

ASU (Avocado Soybean Unsaponifiables):

ASU is a vegetable extract derived from avocado and soybean oil. It has been shown to reduce inflammation while also slowing the breakdown of cartilage, working well in conjunction with glucosamine and chondroitin.

Even when you understand the common ingredients in supplements, choosing one can be tricky. Here are some tips on what to look for, whether you're looking for joint support or another type of supplement for your horse:

• Choose a company that provides easily accessible information about their products, including their contact information.
• Make sure the full list of ingredients with a guaranteed analysis and feeding directions are labeled on the packaging.
• Look for an expiration date and lot number. These show that the manufacturer has a tracking system for product quality.
• Bonus: Look for the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) Quality Seal. The NASC keeps manufacturers accountable for quality, label accuracy, and reporting of adverse events. When you see the Quality Seal on a product, you can trust that it comes from a company that has successfully passed an independent quality audit.

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Cox Veterinary Acti-Flex

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