Ask the Nutritionist

The Scoop on Supplements: Where to Begin and What to Look for.

As an equine veterinarian, one of the questions you might hear is: Does my horse need supplements? 

By Kristyn Sturken

The answer, of course, depends on a variety of factors, most importantly the horse in question. So, we asked Sentinel® Product Manager Kristyn Sturken how to assess a horse’s diet and lifestyle to determine if a supplement could benefit their health and performance.

WHERE SHOULD A VETERINARIAN START?
Before adding anything to a horse’s diet, it’s important to note their body condition and take inventory of what they’re currently getting nutritionally.

Sturken recommends starting with the foundation of their nutrition in forage. What type of hay are they eating, is it good quality and are they eating enough to meet their forage needs?

“You should also look at the makeup of a horse’s feed, and whether or not it’s being fed according to the label,” Sturken says. “If their forage or feed intake falls short, a general protein, vitamin and mineral supplement, or ration balancer, can often fill in the gaps.”

WHAT ARE KEY INGREDIENTS TO LOOK FOR?
The right supplement will always depend on the needs of the specific horse and the condition you’re trying to manage. For digestive concerns, including ulcers, look for ingredients like:

• Prebiotics and probiotics: Prebiotics nourish beneficial bacteria, while probiotics are live microorganisms that help maintain gut balance.
• Butyrate and zinc: These support intestinal cell integrity, improving digestion and nutrient absorption.
• Marine-sourced calcium: Derived from algae, it helps buffer the stomach, aiding horses prone to ulcers.
• Organic acids: These contribute to overall gut health and immune function.

For supporting hoof condition, look for ingredients like:

• Biotin: This B-complex vitamin promotes healthy cell growth and aids in the metabolism of amino acids that support keratin production.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: These serve as an integral part of cell membranes to regulate inflammation, lubricate hoof tissues and support healthy hoof growth.
• Trace mineral amino acid complexes: Bio-available sources of zinc, copper and manganese are important for healthy growth, structure and maintenance of hoof tissues and joints.
• Methionine: An amino acid used in the building of keratin, the main protein in hoof tissue that provides stability and strength.

HOW CAN YOUR CLIENTS TELL IF A SUPPLEMENT IS WORKING?
Knowing if a supplement regime is benefiting your patient requires patience. It can take a minimum of 30 to 60 days or longer to see improvements in hoof quality, coat condition, weight gain or behavior, so make sure your client documents progress, and gives the supplement time to work.