Horse feed supplements

What are feed supplements

Feed supplements are concentrated preparations intended to supplement nutrients, vitamins, minerals or special substances that support the health of the horse. They are not a substitute for the basic diet, but add value to proper nutrition.

Why use feed supplements

Support immunity

Prevention of vitamin and mineral deficiencies

Improvement of coat and hooves quality

Support digestion

Support performance and regeneration

Types of feed supplements
1. Garlic

Used to support immunity, blood circulation and repel insects.

Forms:

fresh garlic

dried powder

tablets or pellets

Benefits:

Supports immunity

Natural insect repellent

Mild anti-inflammatory effects

Disadvantages:

Can irritate the stomach if taken in excess

Can change the taste of milk (in mares)

Not suitable with some medications

Usage:

1–2 cloves daily, or as recommended by the manufacturer

2. Vitamin C

Important for immunity, regeneration and antioxidant protection.

Forms:

powder

tablets

granules

Benefits:

Supports immunity

Helps with recovery

Strong antioxidant

Disadvantages:

Can cause diarrhea if taken in excess

The horse synthesizes it naturally, so it is not always necessary in healthy adult horses

Usage:

Usually 5–10 g per day for an adult horse (depending on manufacturer and weight)

3. Brewer's yeast

Supports digestion and metabolism, coat and hoof health.

Forms:

powder

pellets

Benefits:

Rich in B vitamins

Supports intestinal microflora

Helps with coat and hoof regeneration

Disadvantages:

Some horses may have sensitive stomachs

Can cause bloating if given in excess

Usage:

20–50 g daily, mixed with feed

4. Flaxseed oil

Source of essential fatty acids (Omega-3 and Omega-6).

Benefits:

Improves coat and skin quality

Supports heart and nerve function

Anti-inflammatory effect

Disadvantages:

Can quickly turn yellow or sour

Can cause diarrhea if used in excess

Usage:

20–50 ml added to feed daily

5. Mineral and vitamin supplements

calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, zinc, selenium, vitamins A, D, E
Advantages: supports bones, hooves, immunity
Disadvantages: overdose can be dangerous

6. Special supplements

for sports horses – muscle regeneration, energy

for older horses – joint and cartilage support

probiotics – support digestion

electrolytes – during high stress or heat

How are supplements used

They are usually given with feed

The manufacturer's recommended dose is followed

Changes in doses are made gradually

Monitoring horse reaction (digestion, coat, energy)

We do not use them as a substitute for basic nutrition

Benefits of supplements

Replenishment of nutrients that are missing

Supporting coat, hooves, immunity

Increasing performance and regeneration

Prevention of deficiencies

Disadvantages and risks

Overdose - especially vitamins and minerals

Unbalanced combination of various supplements

Price - some supplements are expensive

Unnecessary with a well-balanced diet

How to choose feed supplements

Purpose of use - immunity, hooves, regeneration, digestion

Age and condition of the horse - foal, adult, senior

Type of load - recreational, sports, work

Form of administration - powder, tablets, oil, pellets

Manufacturer's quality - certification, composition, experience

Horse reaction - always monitor tolerance

Most common mistakes

Combining multiple supplements without consultation

Overfeeding with minerals and vitamins

Insufficient basic feed

Ignoring the horse's health

Feed supplements are not a substitute for basic nutrition, but they can significantly improve the health, condition and performance of a horse if used wisely and purposefully. The right combination of garlic, vitamin C, brewer's yeast, linseed oil and minerals can support immunity, digestion, coat and hoof quality, and overall well-being of the horse.