Some of the horses in this age group are beginning to have a decreased ability to maintain condition due to a decrease in the availability of nutrients across the gut wall; some will need increased dietary intake.

Common dental conditions account for about a thirty percent decrease in weight gains and proper care is vital to ensure these horses maintain conditions. Early detection of periodontal disease (disease of the structures that anchor the tooth in place) will prevent the premature loss of that tooth.

Most horses in this age bracket require annual dental exams.