CHE Standards

Bernice Said:

Anyone have any experience with Glucosamine side effects?

We Answered:

No it is not likely that the Glucosamine is causing this issue. I've had horses on glucosamine for years and never had a single horse have any sort of reaction like that. The possibility is that the liquid form has a lot of molasses in it causing a sugar rush. you might read the label and see how much "other" ingredients there are besides the glucosamine. As you said he was fine on the powder but more active on the liquid. That really indicates that the "other" ingredients in the liquid could be to much for him.

Marie Said:

horse supplements for a young barrel racer?

We Answered:

1. You could start supplementing him early, but 6 might be a bit too early. I'd say starting him on a glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate supplement around 10 would probably be prudent, but at 6 it's more likely a waste of money.

2. Chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine have the best track records for arthritis prevention and treatment. There are a bunch of cheap versions, but many question their effectiveness. Some have reduced dosages that may not be therapeutic, some may not be in a form that is accessible to the body for use. The best versions (cosequin is one I've liked) tend to run about a dollar a day, but are worth every penny.

3. At this point I wouldn't recommend either of those products. The one is glucosamine, which would be helpful for an older horse, but probably not a six year old, and I'd prefer a version with chondroitin sulfate as well. The BL is a great herbal bute alternative for a horse with active pain, but you said the horse isn't lame, so file it for possible future reference, but don't waste your money.

For right now, I'd put him on antioxidants (Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Selenium, Vitamin A) these protect his body from natural but damaging free radicals, they essentially help to slow down the effects of aging. Vitamin A usually isn't supplemented as it is easier to overdose, and can have some really nasty implications if you do overdose it. There are a bunch of E, C and selenium supplements on the market though.

I like this one:

http://www.smartpakequine.co/ProductClas…

it is harder to find, but it has lots of E,C, and selenium as well as other vitamins/minerals and yeast cultures which are good for the stability and efficiency of his digestive tract. A multi vitamin and mineral supplement with high levels of antioxidants is something I'd recomend for any competition horse at any age, they are safe, affordable, and can do wonders for the horse's long term health.

Edit: Link may not work. (Agh!) Product name is: Vita-Key Equine Supplements Antioxidant Concentrate.

Jean Said:

Do liquid glucosamine supplements like Flexicose and Synflex help with spinal stenosis?

We Answered:

Yes they do help with Spinal stenosis; go for the Hylauranic Acid too; and consider adding these:

a. Calcium (low dose only) with Vitamin D;

b. A green food for the Folate and Magnesium

c. Yoga

Go to www.algaecal.com; they have info on "bone spurs;

oh and PS the no. 1 Vit. for this is Vitamin B12!
(u get Vitamin B12 from Doctor or pharmacy; A.

Geraldine Said:

What are the best supplements for great health?

We Answered:

I take a multivitamin, brewer's yeast as a protein supplement and the occasional vitamin B complex for stress. If I am feeling particularly yucky I add some spirulina. Good health!

Jenny Said:

Glucosamine For a Kitten?

We Answered:

Look into Cosequin, which is glucosamine and chondroitin in a flavored capsule. It is not prescription.

I had one cat on the comparable combination (I got the lowest dose capsule for people at the drug store, but that low dose doesn't seem to be made anymore), and simply sprinkled the powder on her wet food. She never noticed, and in fact got to the point where she would gobble down the capsule when placed in front of her. She was on it for her arthritis.

You may need to talk with your vet about the proper dosage.

It is wonderful that you are caring for a special needs kitty.

Julian Said:

Joint supplement reccomendations? Horse is really picky, and really lame.?

We Answered:

Have you tried mixing the powder with a little molasses or corn syrup before you put it in the feed? It sticks to the feed really well so they can't eat around it, and the molasses smell and taste make it much more palatable.