Part 2: Natural Vitamin E and the Senior Horse

Senior horses require special attention to address their changing nutritional needs. As horses age, their metabolism, dental health and digestive efficiency may decrease, affecting their ability to maintain weight and absorb nutrients. In this series we’ll give you some guidelines on what to feed your senior horse.

Part 2: Natural Vitamin E and the Senior Horse

Natural vitamin E is often deficient in the diet of modern horses, particularly those eating diets consisting mainly of hay or other dried forages. Natural vitamin E is necessary for senior horses due to its role as a potent antioxidant and its involvement in various physiological processes. As horses age, their bodies undergo several changes that can make them more susceptible to certain health issues. Natural vitamin E plays a crucial role in supporting their overall health and well-being for the following reasons:

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and tissues, leading to oxidative stress. Senior horses may have reduced antioxidant defenses, making them more vulnerable to oxidative damage. Vitamin E helps protect their cells from this damage, promoting overall health and reducing the risk of certain diseases.

As horses age, their immune systems can become less efficient, leaving them more prone to infections and illnesses. Vitamin E helps support immune function by promoting the production of immune cells and enhancing their activity. This can help senior horses better resist infections and maintain a healthier immune response.

Vitamin E is essential for maintaining healthy muscle and nerve function. It plays a role in protecting cell membranes and nerve cells from damage, which is especially important for older horses that may experience muscle weakness or neurological issues.

Vitamin E contributes to maintaining healthy skin and coat in horses, which is important for their overall comfort and well-being.

Always consult with a qualified equine veterinarian or equine nutritionist to develop a feeding plan tailored to your senior horse’s specific needs. They can help you determine the right balance of nutrients and make adjustments based on your horse’s individual health and condition. Additionally, monitor your horse’s body condition regularly and adjust the diet accordingly to ensure they maintain a healthy weight.

Click here to request a free review of your horse’s diet.