Vitamins and minerals in horse feeds are either derived directly from a specific ingredient or added to make the feed more nutritionally balanced. But what are the more common vitamins and minerals seen in feeds today?
Calcium and phosphorus are probably two of the most crucial mineral levels to take note of. They are essential in the development, maintenance and repair of a horse’s muscles and skeleton and are required in sufficient quantities to be able to do this. The ratios of both change according to your horse’s age or ‘job’ so, for example, feed for lactating mares will be higher in calcium in order to support milk production.
When working out feed rations and diet plans, do not let the facts and figures worry you. Many feed companies have advice lines that can offer support and also offer feeding guidelines on their packaging.
Copper, zinc and selenium are minerals that are required in smaller quantities.
Zinc and copper can play a large part in supporting the orthopaedic development in young horses and are nearly always added to feeds for youngstock and broodmares.
Selenium supports the immune system and reproductive health. However, it can be toxic, so extremely low levels are fed. It is useful to note if you see selenium (Se) listed on the ingredients as you may decide not to feed other additional supplements that also include this mineral.
Vitamin A is not found in any major quantities in grains and is usually obtained from hay and forage. It helps to support bone and muscle growth, reproductive health and skin. Older hay will have a reduced rate of vitamin A so it may need supplementing, depending on the quality and accessibility to hay and grazing.
B-vitamins include thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, biotin, and folic acid. These vitamins function in nearly every chemical reaction within the body. They are critical in metabolism, growth, and energy generation. So, for example, a horse with low energy may need a B vitamin boost.
Vitamin E is another essential nutrient for horses and is often used in nutritionally balanced feeds. Its primary function in your horse's body is as an anti-oxidant. Because of this, vitamin E appears to be most beneficial to young rapidly growing foals, pregnant mares, stallions and performance horses or those in recovery.
Although there are many other vitamins and minerals that a feed company may choose to add, the ones above are key ingredients owners should be aware of when choosing a balanced and health promoting feed for their horses.