By: Matthew M. Brendal
SUPPLEMENTS
Commonly supplements are added to a horse’s diet because of a deficiency in energy. Ensure first you use a high quality feed first and if that does not help or fix the problem then consult an expert. Stay with a quality feed and don’t skip around from brand to brand or different types, this may only cause more problems.
It is too difficult to cover every possible nutritional problem and solution you may face, so you may want to consult a regional or local nutrition expert such as your County Extension Agent or veterinarian.
Before you allow your horse to consume any supplement, know exactly what it contains and what the expected results should be. People make a fortune every year selling supplements that a horse will never fully utilize. A horse needs a very basic diet and it is better to spend the money on high quality feed and hay than it is to purchase expensive supplements. There are two supplements that I think are safe and add a luster of health to the horse, they are probiotics and vegetable oils.
Probiotics
This is a supplement that aids in the digestion of food by assisting the horse to produce enzymes in the hindgut.
This supplement may be beneficial during the following situations:
Antibiotics may reduce the enzyme levels in the hindgut.
Some feeds may not have adequate enzymes for good digestion.
Sickness or illness
Continuous colic or digestion problems
Hay belly (After horse has been wormed and still no change)
Corn oil-Soybean Oil-Canola Oil
These oils naturally help regulate the insulin, helps add a shiny coat and glossy hooves. The amount per day should not exceed a half-cup and only a quarter cup per feeding. Canola oil has been reported to help reduce inflammation.
Chondroitin Sulfate
This supplement is promoted as a treatment for arthritis and joint problems. This product probably provides no anti-inflammatory properties. No study has shown conclusive evidence of manufacturer’s claim but there are some anecdotal claims of positive results from veterinarians.
Glucosamine Sulfate
This supplement has been called “food” for the joints because of its ability to improve the condition of the joints. Glucosamine helps rebuild cartilage and produce synovial fluid. This may also be used to limit the effects of inflammation and arthritis.
Methysulfonylmethane (MSM)
This is a dietary supplement that is a by-product of DMSO. MSM has been promoted as an anti-inflammatory but has not been scientifically proven. Studies have show that MSM may have properties similar to DMSO in assisting the delivery of the supplement, when consumed or applied together, to the affected area. MSM may also have some minor anti-inflammatory properties.
