Best Performance Horse Supplements

ByEquineathon

When it comes to performance horse supplements, there are many options designed to support overall health, boost performance, and address specific needs such as joint health, energy, muscle recovery, and immune function. The best supplements depend on the horse’s individual needs and the type of performance activity (e.g., dressage, eventing, racing, or rodeo). Below are some of the best performance horse supplements to consider:

1. Joint Health Supplements

Joint supplements are essential for horses involved in high-impact activities. These supplements typically include ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), and hyaluronic acid to promote joint health, reduce inflammation, and prevent arthritis.

  • Cosequin ASU: A widely recognized supplement that supports joint health. It contains glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and ASU (avocado/soybean unsaponifiables) to improve joint lubrication and repair.
  • SmartPak’s SmartFlex Senior: Ideal for older horses or those under heavy training, this supplement supports healthy joints with glucosamine, MSM, and antioxidants.

2. Electrolytes

Horses lose electrolytes through sweat, especially during intense physical activity or in hot weather. An electrolyte supplement helps replenish sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium, which are vital for muscle function and hydration.

  • Sure Sol Electrolytes: A highly effective electrolyte supplement that is easy to administer and helps maintain fluid balance and muscle function during exertion.
  • Hydration Hay: A type of hay with added electrolytes for horses who have trouble drinking enough water during hot weather or strenuous activities.

3. Muscle Recovery Supplements

Muscle support supplements are designed to help with recovery, reduce muscle soreness, and improve endurance. These typically include amino acids and antioxidants.

  • Equine America Magnitude: A muscle recovery supplement that supports muscle health and recovery post-exercise, preventing soreness.
  • SmartMuscle Mass: This supplement contains amino acids and other ingredients to support muscle development, especially beneficial for horses in intense training programs.

4. Energy Supplements

Horses performing in high-intensity disciplines like racing, eventing, or endurance racing require a boost of energy. Energy supplements typically contain carbohydrates, fats, and electrolytes to provide quick energy and enhance stamina.

  • EnduraMax: Designed for endurance horses, it provides energy through a combination of fats, electrolytes, and glucose to keep the horse going during long periods of exertion.
  • ProForce Fuel: An excellent choice for performance horses needing an energy boost, this supplement provides both fast-acting energy and longer-lasting endurance.

5. Immune Support Supplements

Performance horses are constantly exposed to stress, travel, and potential illnesses, making immune support critical. These supplements include vitamins, minerals, and herbs that help the horse’s body fight off infections and recover quickly.

  • Pyranha Equine Immunity Support: This supplement supports the immune system with a blend of vitamins, minerals, and herbal ingredients designed to fight stress and illness.
  • SmartPak’s SmartImmune: A supplement that helps boost the immune system and fight oxidative stress with antioxidants like Vitamin E and selenium.

6. Digestive Health Supplements

For performance horses, maintaining digestive health is crucial as they are often stressed and under high physical demand. Supplements that support gut health include probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes.

  • Succeed Digestive Conditioning: A highly recommended supplement for maintaining gastrointestinal health. It contains digestive enzymes and a blend of prebiotics and probiotics to support digestion and nutrient absorption.
  • SmartDigest Ultra: Contains probiotics, prebiotics, and other ingredients that help with digestion and prevent colic or gastric ulcers, common concerns in performance horses.

7. Hoof Health Supplements

Healthy hooves are essential for performance horses, particularly those in work that involves a lot of movement and strain. These supplements are designed to improve hoof quality, strength, and growth.

  • Farrier’s Formula Double Strength: This formula supports healthy hooves with biotin, methionine, and other essential nutrients.
  • Hoof Power: A blend of biotin, zinc, and other ingredients that promotes strong, durable hooves, ensuring performance horses are protected from lameness issues related to poor hoof health.

8. Calming and Focus Supplements

Horses involved in competitive events may become anxious, especially in new environments or during high-pressure situations. Calming supplements can help with focus and relaxation.

  • Quiessence: Designed for horses who become stressed or nervous during training or competition, this supplement includes magnesium to help promote relaxation without sedating the horse.
  • Calm and Cool: This supplement helps reduce stress and anxiety, making it easier for performance horses to focus on their tasks without excessive nervousness.

9. Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Anti-inflammatory Supplements

Omega-3 fatty acids support overall health by promoting heart and skin health, and they can reduce inflammation in joints and muscles after intense exercise.

  • Uckele’s Omega 3 & 6: This is a potent supplement that helps maintain a healthy inflammatory response, benefiting horses in high-stress activities.
  • Corta-Flx: Contains omega-3 fatty acids along with other ingredients that support joint health and reduce inflammation.

10. Vitamin and Mineral Supplements

Performance horses often require extra vitamins and minerals to meet the demands of intense training and competition. A well-balanced vitamin and mineral supplement ensures they receive all the nutrients they need to perform at their best.

  • Tri-Amino by KER: A supplement designed for horses that need an extra boost of amino acids, essential for muscle development and recovery.
  • SmartVite Performance: A complete vitamin and mineral supplement, this product is perfect for horses that need additional support to ensure they are getting all the essential nutrients.

Conclusion

When choosing the best performance supplements for horses, it’s crucial to assess the individual needs of the horse. Joint, muscle, and digestive health are particularly important for performance horses, but other factors such as energy levels, immune support, and hoof health should also be considered. Always consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist before introducing any new supplements to your horse’s routine to ensure safety and effectiveness. By providing the right supplements, you can support your horse’s performance, health, and longevity in their athletic endeavors.