The Role of Zinc in a Horses Diet - Horse Supplements

Zinc is a co-factor for hundreds of enzymes in the horse’s body, several of which are required for bone formation and calcification. It supports the synthesis of chondroitin sulphate which is essential for cartilage formation. Other roles include support for foetal development, growth and reproduction. It is needed for DNA synthesis and neurological function.

Perhaps the most well-known areas of its importance are in the health of skin, coat and hoof, it’s role in keratin synthesis has been particularly well-researched. The benefits of zinc on skin quality are seen across many species but adding excess to feed must be avoided as the European regulations, under which we still operate, are rightly limiting excess zinc ending up in the environment, particularly waterways. Zinc supports epithelial cell reproduction, maintenance and membrane integrity. There is increasing awareness of the role zinc plays in supporting the immune system and in wound healing. Carbohydrate and lipid metabolism depend upon it. Finally Zinc is needed to support the synthesis and regulation of hormones, a major contribution from a micronutrient.

Good sources include wheatfeed and brewers grains but U.K. forages do not usually contain enough to meet most horses’ requirements so supplementation is necessary.