I would like to know, if feeding crimped oats what vitamin/mineral supplement would be a good choice. My horse is a pleasure AQHA gelding, not worked but 2 to 3 times a week. – Krista W. via AAEP Ask the Vet
If your horse was getting a full serving of a fortified grain I would tell you that a vitamin/mineral supplement isn’t necessary, but since your horse is getting just crimped oats for extra calories, you’re smart for looking into a vitamin/mineral supplement to complement his diet. I’m going to assume that he is also getting an appropriate amount of quality hay.
When looking for a multivitamin, remember that not every horse’s nutrient needs are equal. Your horse’s workload will influence his vitamin and mineral requirements, so look for one that differentiates between different workloads. Also consider looking for a multivitamin designed for his life stage. For example, senior horses may benefit from additional vitamins that also serve as antioxidants such as vitamins E and C. If your horse is older, look for a multivitamin formulated with the senior in mind. Lastly, palatability is important as the supplement won’t do him any good if he doesn’t eat it. Try and find a pelleted option, as most horses prefer them to powdered supplements.
Lydia Gray, DVM MA, is the Staff Veterinarian for SmartPak. Prior to joining SmartPak, Dr. Gray served as the first-ever Director of Owner Education for the American Association of Equine Practitioners. She has authored numerous articles in publications such as The Horse, Horse Illustrated, Western Horseman and a variety of veterinary journals and magazines. Dr. Gray is also a frequent speaker at horse expos, veterinary conventions and other events. After graduating with honors from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine and receiving her Master's Degree in Interpersonal and Organizational Communication, she practiced at the Tremont Veterinary Clinic for several years. Dr. Gray is active in the American Veterinary Medical Association and Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association. She enjoys training and showing her Trakehner, Newman, in both combined driving and dressage, and is a USDF “L” Program Graduate (with distinction). Find Dr. Gray on Google+
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I have 2 QH and I will put them in to the race track, but i have no idea how to feed a race horse,can you please let me know witch feed should i use.
Hi Robert, thank you for asking! It’s so important to correctly meet a racehorse’s nutritional needs, considering energy, vitamins and minerals, proteins, fats and more that I would really recommend you work closely with your veterinarian and/or equine nutritionist. Every horse is unique, and so you will be best served working with a professional that specializes in nutrition and can help you develop an excellent program for each of your race horses. – Dr. Lydia Gray