Omega-3 for Horses

Omega-3 fatty acids have positive effects throughout your horse’s body, from brain to tail. However, many domesticated horses are fed grain-rich diets that are rich in omega-6 fatty acids. Now, the equine body needs omega-6, but the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 should be balanced Concentrated energy sources like commercial horse feed can inadvertently throw off the equilibrium of omega-6 and omega-3, reducing the ability of your horse’s immune system to fight off inflammation.

In addition to maintaining stasis between omegas 3 and 6, omega-3 equine supplements contain two important compounds that provide benefits for horses of all ages: DHA and EPA. DHA is a compound that supports and strengthens brain function and EPA acts as a potent anti-inflammatory. DHA can help with better retention and quicker learning for young horses in training, and owners of elder horses can supplement with DHA-rich equine omega-3 to keep their horses sharp. Older horses who have arthritis or symptoms of other joint disorders may especially benefit from EPA’s anti-inflammatory qualities.  

Omega-3 fatty acids for horses are essential to optimizing your horse’s health. Modern horse feed contains omega-6-rich ingredients like oats, rice and wheat bran, barley, and sunflower seeds. These can throw the levels of omega-6 and omega-3 out of balance, causing omega-6 fatty acids to convert into inflammation-stimulating prostaglandins. These contribute to problems like chronic pain, increased inflammation (arthritis and otherwise), and cardiovascular issues. The most popular way to treat these symptoms is with phenylbutazone (also known as “bute”). This NSAID is prescribed so frequently that many owners think it’s just as safe as aspirin — and that’s just not true. Bute can cause colitis, ulcers, and renal damage, so it’s important to be proactive when dealing with an imbalance of omega-3 fatty acids. 

Aside from bute, there are a variety of ways (both pharmaceutical and natural) to treat specific equine maladies and enhance your horse’s diet. Omega-3 oil for horses is the Clydesdale of supplements — it really does it all. In addition to maintaining the proper balance of omega-3 and omega-6, omega-3 fish oil for horses can help to soothe skin and coat issues, keep your horse’s heart healthy, and support glandular function. 

Omega-3 oil for horses’ powerful anti-inflammatory qualities go far beyond relieving the symptoms of arthritis. Fish oil supports the function of the immune system and can also decrease inflammation caused by kidney disease and even certain types of cancer. Adding an omega-3 horse supplement to provide additional vitamins and nutrients is an effective way to support your horse’s overall good health. 

Because omega-3 supplements have been popular for many years, horse owners have a wide variety of supplements from which to choose. We know how tempting it can be to price-shop, but don’t give your horse just any omega-3 fish oil. To get the most benefits out of adding natural supplements like fish oils, it’s important to look for quality products. Here are four things to look for when you’re on the hunt for the best source of omega 3 for horses:

• Processing: Fish oils using a cold-press process retain more omega-3 fatty acids, which can be harmed during high-temperature extraction methods.
• Fish size: Large fish (like cod and salmon) produce oil that’s less DHA- and EPA-rich than fish oil made from whole small fish (such as anchovies and sardines). 
• Distillation: The process of distillation is necessary to remove the heavy metals and other toxins that may be present in unrefined fish oil.
• Testing: Third-party testing allows you to get an accurate picture of the potency and purity of your omega-3 for horses. It’s also an indicator that the manufacturer is confident in the quality of their products. 

Omega-3 for horses could not be easier to administer — simply measure out the proper dose and squirt it directly onto your horse’s feed. It’s always best to confer with your veterinarian to make sure that omega-3 fish oil is right for your horse. While omega-3 oils are not known to have any severe interactions with other drugs, it’s not advised to add fish oil if your horse takes anticoagulants, NSAIDs, or doxorubicin. 

Horses experience very few side effects from fish oil, but if you notice diarrhea or other signs of stomach upset, discontinue use and consult with your veterinarian as soon as you can. 

If your horse’s diet is lacking in omega-3 fatty acids, consider adding a simple supplement to your feeding routine. SetPet’s Omega-3 Fish Oil Concentrate for Horses is a high-quality solution from a company you can trust. With over two decades in the animal health industry, we’re committed to providing you and your four-legged friends with pure, all-natural supplements. Owners report seeing a positive difference in horses of all ages, whether training a colt to walk on a lead or seeking a new way to support an elder horse’s brain function. Our fish oil is an easy way to give your mount the DHA, EPA, and other natural vitamins that can help them perform at their best. For owners who are looking for a veterinarian-recommended supplement that can support overall good health in both brain and body, pick up your Omega-3 Fish Oil Concentrate for Horses today.