A healthy, well-fed horse engaged in moderate exercise typically doesn’t require supplements, as a proper diet consisting of quality feed and forage provides all the necessary nutrients. However, there are special occasions when certain nutrient requirements increase, and that’s when nutritional supplements come into play.
When Should You Consider Supplementing Your Horse?
Throughout the year, there are three periods when it’s beneficial to implement supplements for horses. These supplements become necessary when your horse is participating in sports or exerting significant effort. Vitamin complexes, known as supplements, help increase the nutrient levels required in their diet. This ensures your horse receives the necessary vitamins.
Which Vitamins Are Beneficial for Horses?
Vitamins that aid horses can be found in various foods and horse supplements, offering different benefits. Here, we’ll outline how different vitamins can enhance your horse’s health:
Vitamin A: Known for its significant role in vision, as well as cell differentiation, reproduction, embryogenesis, foaling, and growth. Equines also benefit their immune system from this vitamin.
B Complex: Supports many aspects of the horse’s system, such as carbohydrate metabolism, Folic Acid, among other points that aim to increase red blood cell production and oxygen transport capacity.
Vitamin C: Antioxidant functions and protection of respiratory tissues rely on ascorbic acid. It helps prevent respiratory diseases and reduces fatigue.
Vitamin D: Apart from controlling the distribution of phosphorus and calcium in bones, it also manages their assimilation and renal excretion.
Vitamin E: Its antioxidant capacity prevents the oxidation of lipids in cell membranes and muscles.