It is wise to supplement your horse’s diet if it does not receive enough essential nutrients on a daily basis. A deficiency in important nutrients can lead to health problems. This may result in injuries, coat issues or poor condition — things you naturally want to prevent. Horses that train intensively, regularly compete and/or travel often require additional nutrients. Providing a supportive supplement can help your horse perform at its best.
Anxiety, Behaviour and Stress
Horses are flight animals and may sometimes react strongly to external stimuli — for example, at competitions or during transport. A deficiency in certain substances can heighten the startle response. A supplement designed to support stress management can help. Good supportive products include: HorseFlex Magnesium Relax Combi, Audevard Zzen, NAF Instant Magic, Pavo BeChill.
Respiratory System
Horses have sensitive airways, and respiratory complaints are quite common. These can be triggered by particles and moulds in the stable. Horses can also be sensitive to pollen and react accordingly. A supplement can support and soothe your horse’s respiratory system. Supportive products include: Audevard Balsamic Air, Audevard Balsamic Control, Puur Respirato, HorseFlex AllerRelief, NAF Respirator Boost.
Muscles and Tendons
For active or sport horses, a muscle/tendon supplement is essential. These horses require extra nutrients that support muscle development and recovery after intense exertion. With the right support, you contribute to healthy muscles and tendons. Good muscle development and quick recovery help enhance your horse’s performance. Suitable products include: Audevard Ekyflex Tendon EVO, NAF Vitamin E, Selenium & Lysine, NAF M Fit, HorseFlex Magnesium Chelate.
Joints
Ageing horses as well as active or sport horses may suffer from joint issues. Joints endure a lot of strain. By providing a suitable supplement, you can support your horse’s mobility. These supplements contain ingredients that help with the formation and maintenance of cartilage. Products with these properties include: NAF Glucosamine 12,000 Plus with MSM, PharmaHorse Collagen+, HorseFlex JointPower + Hyaluronic Acid, Puur Glucosamine Extra Horse.
Immunity
Various circumstances can weaken your horse’s immune system. This may result from medication use, changes in living environment and/or herd structure. A weakened immune system makes your horse more susceptible to viruses. The following products are suitable for immune support: Audevard Immuno RS, Puur L-Lysine, Phytonics Immu Boost, Puur Vita-min Horse, Sectolin Rosehip, Excellent Vitasporal Horse.
Digestion
A horse’s digestive system is specially adapted to efficiently process fibre-rich food such as grass and hay. The digestive system includes the stomach, small intestine, caecum and large intestine, and functions continuously since horses eat small amounts throughout the day. Unfortunately, various disorders can affect the intestines. The most common issues are diarrhoea, colic and stomach ulcers. In the case of colic, it is always advised to contact a vet, as colic can be life-threatening. To support the gastrointestinal system, there are several products available, such as: Audevard Bo Yeas Act Ultra, PharmaHorse Psyllium Husk Fibres, ECOstyle Colosan Digestive Oil, Horseflex Probiotics, Audevard Ekygard, Pavo GutHealth.