Step 1: Decide what you want to support
The key question before choosing a supplement is: why do you think your horse needs something? Only once the problem or need is clear can you choose a suitable product. Below are the most common categories with examples of supplements.
1. Joints & mobility
For older horses, sport horses or horses recovering from injury, joint and muscle support supplements can be useful. Important ingredients include glucosamine, MSM, collagen and herbs like Boswellia. One example is HorseFlex Boswellia, which supports the joints and helps maintain supple movement. Another option is Audevard Ekyflex Mobility.
2. Skin & allergies
Horses with itchiness, sweet itch or sensitivity to insects often benefit from extra skin support. Think of dry, flaky skin, rubbing the mane and tail, or recurring irritation during the insect season. For support, consider:
3. Itchiness & allergic reactions
For horses with hives, unexplained bumps or allergic skin reactions, extra support for the immune response and skin reaction can be helpful. Examples include:
4. Airways
Coughing, sensitivity to dust or pollen, a runny nose or getting out of breath more quickly can point to respiratory issues. Alongside management such as low-dust feeding and good ventilation, an airway-supporting supplement can help. An example is Audevard Balsamic Control, which supports the airways and promotes easier breathing.
5. Digestion
With sensitive intestines, gas formation, variable droppings or recovery after colic, digestive supplements can help support the gut flora. Think of pre- and probiotics, psyllium or fibre-rich products. Choose carefully, preferably in consultation with your veterinarian or a nutritionist.
6. Behaviour & relaxation
Horses that build up tension quickly, are easily startled or struggle to relax at competitions or during transport can benefit from calming supplements. These products often contain magnesium, herbs or amino acids that support relaxation. Check the composition carefully and whether the product is doping-free if you compete.
7. General health & immunity
Sometimes you simply want to support overall health, immunity, coat and skin. Omega-3 fatty acids play an important role because they help regulate inflammatory processes and support the immune system. An example is Dr. Baddaky Omega-3, a high-quality omega-3 supplement based on marine fatty acids.
Step 2: Could it be a symptom of something else?
It is important to realise that a supplement never replaces a medical diagnosis. For complaints such as sudden coughing, lameness, severe itchiness, open wounds, fever or clear behavioural changes you should always consult your veterinarian first.
Sometimes something seems like a “supplement issue”, for example stiff muscles or itchiness, but there is an underlying condition that requires targeted treatment. A supplement can then provide additional support, but should not be a reason to postpone a vet visit.
Step 3: Pay attention to ingredient quality
Not every supplement is the same. Pay attention to:
- Purity: preferably no unnecessary fillers or superfluous additives.
- Dosage: a supplement only works if the active substances are present in sufficient amounts.
- Form: some horses prefer powder, others pellets or liquid; bioavailability can also differ.
- Natural vs. synthetic: herbs can be effective, but pay attention to possible interactions and the doping rules if you compete.
Step 4: Consider horse type and lifestyle
The need for supplements varies per horse. A young, energetic sport horse needs different support than an easy keeper or an older, retired horse.
- Easy-keeper breeds (Shetlands, Icelandic horses, Fjord horses) are often sensitive to sugars and starch. Choose low-sugar supplements where possible.
- Sport horses may benefit from extra support for muscles, joints and recovery (for example omega-3 fatty acids or joint supplements).
- Seniors often need extra attention for joints, immunity and digestion.
Step 5: Don’t use everything at once
It’s tempting to give several supplements at the same time in the hope it will help faster. But more isn’t always better. Too many different products can overlap, stress the gastrointestinal tract and make it hard to judge what actually works. Keep it clear:
- Choose one main goal (e.g. itchiness, airways or joints).
- Start with one suitable supplement.
- Evaluate the effects after 4–6 weeks.
- Only add something new if it is really necessary.
Step 6: Choose a supplement that fits your situation
When you choose a supplement, it’s important to look closely at your horse’s specific situation. By identifying which need stands out most, you can choose a supplement that really fits what your horse needs.
How do you know if the supplement works?
Give a supplement enough time to show effect. Usually you evaluate the result after 4–6 weeks. Pay attention to, for example:
- less itchiness or rubbing
- less coughing or calmer breathing
- more supple movement and easier canter transitions
- a shinier coat and healthy skin
- better manure consistency or less gas formation
- calmer, more relaxed behaviour
When to stop or switch?
Stop or consult your veterinarian if:
- you see no improvement after 6–8 weeks
- side effects occur, such as diarrhoea, lethargy or changes in appetite
- the complaints worsen or new symptoms arise
Sometimes a different type of supplement is a better match, or further medical diagnostics are needed.
A supplement can be a valuable support for your horse, provided you choose with focus. Look closely at the complaints, lifestyle and type of horse, and pay attention to the product’s quality and composition. A supplement works best as part of a complete management plan: good roughage, sufficient exercise, appropriate housing and regular veterinary checks.
Not sure which supplement suits your horse best? Contact us at veterinarian@vetsend.co.uk.
