Read About Horse Supplements

Horse supplements are very popular in caring for your horse. All new supplements have miracles promised behind their label. The question is, which supplements are necessary? The first thing before you consider any supplement is speak to your veterinarian and get a clear understanding of what supplements are and what they will do for your horse.

Supplements are made to assist in the nutritional value for when your horse is not receiving the nutrients by feed alone. Examine what you are feeding your horse and examine your horse to see what your horse is missing. Make sure, very first, you are providing the very best hay and grain without going broke. Make sure your horse receives enough water and salt.

The high quality feed should meet, if not all, your horse's nutritional levels. Pregnant horses often need additional supplements to help them in their pregnancy. Horses that are still growing also need the supplements to ensure they keep healthy. Horses being trained for show and racing have higher stress levels and benefit in the use of supplements.

A few of the supplements and a brief description are as follows: Protein is used for growth, building and repairing body muscles. Protein also helps build stronger bones, blood, skin, hooves and other body tissues. High protein can help your horse keep warmer during the winter months. Most hay has enough protein for the average horse; but foals, pregnant and nursing mares may need this supplement.

Vitaminsare organic compound that assist the body function and are given in small doses. Fat-soluble vitamins are Vitamins A, D, E and K. Water-soluble vitamins are Vitamins B and C.

Vitamin A concentrates on the eye health, hoof growth and the reproductive organs. Vitamin D takes the role of breaking down calcium and phosphorous into bone health. Vitamin E develops and ensures function of muscles and reproduction system. Also, Vitamin E builds the immune system and neurological function. Vitamin K assures blood clotting and stimulation of proteins in the horse's body.

Vitamin C, an antioxidant, helps fats, proteins and cell membranes from damage; also helps with the formation of bones and teeth. Iodine helps the metabolism. Deficiency in Selenium has the capability to cause muscle disease and weakness. This supplement if given in excess can be very toxic to your horse. Red blood cells and hemoglobin rely on the proper daily amount of iron. Proper body and muscle function is needed with the proper amount of potassium.

Joint supplements maintain sturdiness in aging and athletic horses. Endurance horses and horses that live in areas with hot and humid climates use electrolyte supplements.

There are many more supplements not listed that are on the market today. Before giving your horse any supplements you need to get the advice from your veterinarian on the best supplements for your horse.