Myth: A Shiny Horse is a Healthy Horse

Equines such as ponies, minis, donkeys, and mules cannot tolerate as much fat as horses. They require some fat, but generally one-third to one-half the amount given to horses, proportionate to their weight.

Bottom line

Read the ingredient label on any feed or supplement designed to add more fat to your horse’s diet. The ingredients may be imbalanced. While it will make your horse shine, it may do nothing to contribute to overall health and may actually increase inflammation.

i Omega-9s are another classification of fatty acids that do not promote inflammation and may protect the heart and blood vessels.

ii Fish oils are also high in omega-3s. However, ALA from plants is converted to the longer chain omega-3s found in fish oils.