arab mare that has a swollen knee

Question
I just was given a 14 yr old unregistered arab mare. she was under weight... she is picking up weight "ok" but not much. also she has a "large" knee. her right front knee is larger than the other... we took her out on a 10 mile ride and she never limped or favored it nor did it swell... what are good ways of putting weight on arabs? i cant give alfalfa because my other mare gets REALLY hot. and this mare will only eat about 7 scoops of feed a day... and question number two what could be the reason for her knee to be swollen? there is no scar there...

Answer
First, Try switching her to Purina Strategy. Only 2 scoops per feeding twice a day. Then use Alfalfa or  good Timothy/Alphahfa mix hay. Keep her seperated when feeding her. Do not under any circumstances feed coastal or tifton as she will colic.  Keep a record of her weight using this mix and she will gradually gain. Arabs are a touchy breed when it comes to food. You have to change her over a 1/4 scoop at a time or she may colic as well.  Once she is stabalized, she will pick up weight. Also, she should be wormed.  Keep her away from your other horses for a couple of weeks to make sure she is not carrying other diseases. That is very important because the entire herd can be affected.  Also, check her teeth for points as she may need floated. All the feed in the world will not matter if her teeth are bad.

The knee may be the result of an older wound or even a puncture that is infected. It should be looked at by a vet. I hope you enjoy here. Arabs are fantastic, but a little harder to deal with than most breeds.