can my old horse have dementia?

Question

is it possible horses to get dementure i have a mare 21 she was very brite and didnt look aday over 8 10yrs but the last month she looks 21 and she is acting not anything like herself she is adifferent horse and i now her well i bottle reared her from 10 days old and there has never been a day she hasnt been with me she is eating not as much lost a little weight but the antics she gets up to swimming in the dam at night wont come out and it cold i have to dry her than change her rug sometimes she wont come to me when i call her when i go over to her she wont moove she just acts like im not there and starres into space looking at nothing im worried has she lost the plot every ones laughing at her but im quite upset it will be a sad day for me whwn she goes as she has been my best friend and so territorial about me she doesnt like anybody to get to close to me she has pushed people out of her way so they cant stand near me old age yes i no but its came on so quick

Answer 1

First, I have had some pretty Demented Horses. LOL! But, it more of a personality thing.
She has done well 21 years and still going. Your horse can live well toward the big 3---0. Most change will come slow in time. Normally a Horse does not have Hearing and Vision problems as they age, like people. They can have a loss of taste. So, a high quality palatable diet is important. Vitamins and Minerals are important. Also, be aware of special foods and treats she responds to best. Normally an older horse will become less dominate, but, if she alone and you her friend she may become more protective of you.
If, you feel she having a sudden change I would first talk with the Vet and discuss diet and stuff. Then he may want to see her. Be sure to tell how fast/slow things have changed. This about all I know. Show her everyday you love her.

Answer 2

First, I want to say that I completely understand your pain. I had my first horse since I was about 9 (she was 17), and she died this January at the age of 23. For her, it was liver failure. I found her one day in her stall, down and unable to get up. We tried to get her to stand up, but we couldn't. We bedded her down, fed her, and watered her. I figured she would be fine. The next day I went down to the barn with my father to check on her, and she couldn't even tell I was there. She had a blind eye for as long as I had her, and now couldn't see me at all. She just sat there as I walked into the stall, and then she finally noticed me. There was a hole dug where she kicked to get up. Blood and tooth marks covered the wall by her, and the right side of her face was bloody. That night I made the choice to have her put down. I still haven't fully recovered, and probably never will.

As far as the dementia, I think it is definitely a possibility. I don't know much about it, but get your vet out to see your horse so we can get a diagnosis. All you can do is hope and pray. Try to be optimistic, and know that whatever happens is meant to be that way. Cherish every day that you spend with her, as she could live to be 35, or have only a short span left. You are blessed to have each other! Good luck and God bless!

Answer 3

My horse is turning 40 in a few months an until about 6 months ago was acting pretty normal. He eats what he can and with a little extra feed and love has been physically healthy. Lately, he only wants to be touched on is neck, which has always been his favorite spot to be scratched. If you try to put a halter on him he gets aggressive and sqeals. he nickers softly almost nonstop wen your around. But is not the loving affectionate fella he was, I am very concerned that this will be to his demise as he is no longer safe to approach. Any suggestions?