If you’re a stable owner, you would understand that focusing on the horse’s diet is the most challenging task is to focus on a diet of horses.
In a study performed by Mad Barn on 6,515 horses, it was found that the common diet of horses is usually rich with calories, protein, and iron but highly deficient in essential minerals like sodium and antioxidants like selenium and vitamin E.
Moreover, they also figured out that, 85.8% of the horses has at least one health concern. Some are suffering with joint and/or hoof health issues (38%) while some are having respiratory issues (10%).
So, it’s quite obvious that we have to prepare a meal or balanced diet for horses which includes all the nutrients. But is it possible to carry this on continuously? What are the challenges?
Let’s discuss them first!
Challenges for Owners to Maintain Balanced Diet in Horses
Individual Needs
Keeping your horse on a good diet can be trickier than it seems. First, every horse is different, right? A horse’s nutritional needs vary depending on factors like age, breed, activity level, and even temperament. For example, a young, energetic stallion needs a whole lot more fuel than a chill old-timer. So, what works for one might not work for another.
Balancing the right amount of forage, concentrates, and supplements requires great knowledge.
Forage Challenges
Hay is the foundation of a horse’s diet, but its quality can vary. Sun-bleached hay or hay low in protein and fiber won’t meet the horse’s needs.
On the other hand, lush pastures can be high in sugar and cause weight gain or laminitis in some horses. Also, it’s barely got any vitamins. Conversely, poor-quality pastures lack essential nutrients.
Concentrate Considerations
Concentrates are meant to supplement forage, not replace it. Overfeeding grain can lead to obesity and health problems. Some horses are picky eaters who just fish out the yummy bits, leaving all the good stuff behind.
Dental Issues & Other Concerns:
If your horse’s got bad teeth, chewing can be very difficult for them. However, there can be other issues or injuries which can be a barrier to fulfil all the nutrition value of a horse.
To compete with all these challenges, Winged has introduced some valuable equine supplements. All are highly tested and approved.
But it’s important to keep in mind that supplements aren’t a replacement for a balanced diet. Now, before any further discussion, let’s understand the key differences between them.
Difference between Horse Supplements and Balanced Diet
Aspect | Horse Supplements | Balanced Diet |
Purpose | Target specific nutritional deficiencies or needs | Provide overall nutrition |
Composition | It may contain vitamins, minerals, amino acids, probiotics | Includes hay, grains, pasture, and forage |
Convenience | Easy to administer, often in pellet or powder form | Requires proper sourcing, preparation, and storage |
Cost | It can be costly depending on the type and brand | Cost varies based on feed quality and availability |
Customisation | Tailored to individual horse’s requirements | It may require adjustments based on the horse’s condition |
Absorption | Quick absorption of nutrients | Nutrients absorbed over time through digestion |
Regulation | Regulated by equine health authorities and guidelines | Guidelines provided by equine nutritionists |
Risk of Overdose | Possible if not used correctly or monitored | Less risk when feeding natural sources |
Long-Term Health Impact | Should be monitored for potential long-term effects | Balanced diets contribute to overall health |
Can Supplements Alone Be Enough?
We all want our horses to thrive. Shiny coats, boundless energy, and happy behaviour are what every horse owner dreams of. Horse supplements are a multi-billion-dollar industry, promising to bridge any nutritional gaps and optimise your horse’s health.
But can supplements fulfil all your needs?
Well, the supplements alone cannot fulfil all a horse’s dietary needs. They are meant to be just that – supplemental – to a good quality base diet. They typically focus on specific vitamins and minerals, not the full range of nutrients a horse gets from forage and grains.
It may not be absorbed as efficiently by the horse’s digestive system as the nutrients they get from natural feed. Moreover, too much of certain minerals can be harmful, throwing off the horse’s delicate nutritional balance.
However, supplements can be beneficial in certain situations, such as:
- Addressing Deficiencies: If your horse grazes on poor-quality forage or lives in a region with depleted soil, they might lack essential minerals. Targeted supplements can bridge these gaps.
- Supporting Specific Needs: Horses in heavy work, pregnant mares, or growing foals might require additional protein, electrolytes, or joint support, which supplements can provide.
- Senior Horses: As horses age, their digestive efficiency can decline. Senior horse supplements might be formulated with prebiotics or probiotics to aid digestion.
What are some signs my horse might need supplements?
Here are some issues that horses may encounter:
Poor coat quality: A dull, dry, or patchy coat can indicate a lack of essential nutrients.
Weight loss or difficulty maintaining weight: This could be due to a lack of calories or nutrients in the diet.
Lethargy or lack of energy: This can be a sign of overall poor health or a specific nutrient deficiency.
Decreased appetite: This could be due to illness, dental problems, or a diet that is not palatable.
Changes in manure consistency: Diarrhoea, constipation, or manure that is overly wet or dry can all be signs of digestive problems.
Colic: While colic can have many causes, some types can be caused by digestive imbalances.
Muscle weakness or soreness: This can be a sign of electrolyte imbalance, vitamin E deficiency, or other problems.
Poor stamina or decreased athletic performance: This could be due to a lack of energy, muscle weakness, or respiratory problems.
Skin lesions or cracking hooves: This could be a sign of zinc deficiency.
Night blindness: This can be a sign of vitamin A deficiency.
Weakness or stiffness: This could be a sign of selenium or vitamin E deficiency.
Reproductive problems: Difficulty getting pregnant, weak foals, or pregnancy loss can all be signs of nutritional deficiencies.
How to Use Supplements Along with A Balance Diet?
Some supplements are best absorbed on an empty stomach, while others work better with food. It depends on what type of supplement you are offering. For example, mineral-based supplements, including Iron and Magnesium, are better to provide before food.
You can simply follow the specific recommendations for each supplement written on the label.
Avoid taking multiple supplements at once, as this can hinder absorption. Space them out throughout the day.
Also, take your supplements consistently as directed to reap the long-term benefits.
The Importance of Consulting a Professional
Before adding any supplement to your horse’s diet, consult your veterinarian or equine nutritionist.
Here’s why:
- Over-supplementation: Too much of a good thing can be bad. Excessive levels of certain minerals and vitamins can be toxic. However, Winged always recommends proper dosage directions, which you should read carefully.
- Drug Interactions: Some equine supplements can interact with medications your horse might be taking.
- Underlying Issues: Sometimes, perceived nutritional deficiencies might indicate an underlying health problem. A vet can rule out any medical causes before recommending supplements.
The Bottom Line
Horse supplements can be a valuable tool in your horse’s health care toolbox. It can play a better role if properly used along with a balanced diet. That’s why Winged creates high-quality supplements that can easily accessible and could be used to offer the best diet.
To learn more, visit our online store right now!