1. Protein deficiency usually results in a reduced appetite
    1. Microbial synthesis occurs at the end of the GI tract (after absorption of AA)
    2. High quality protein is recommended
    3. Feed to meet the horses amino acid needs
  2. Minerals are not usually a problem
    1. Deficiencies result in weakened bones, and lead to leg problems

                                                               i.      Ca and P are NOT the only minerals necessary, but no information is currently available

    1. For Ca and P it is important to remember

                                                               i.      Adequate amounts of each is needed

                                                             ii.      The suitable ration between the two is needed

                                                            iii.      Vitamin D must be available

    1. Salt (NaCl) is often forgot about by horse owners, but is especially needed by horses because they are one of the few farm animals that sweat (loosing tremendous amounts of salt)
  1. Most vitamins are adequate for horses.
    1. Vit. A should be checked in the horses diet

                                                               i.      When grazing green grass or fed green hay, should not be a problem

                                                             ii.      If fed feeds low in carotene, especially in the winter, supplementation is advisable

    1. Vit. D may be a problem for horses confined to the stable for most of the day (sunlight)

                                                               i.      Most feeds are low in Vitamin D

                                                             ii.      Usually feed 10 to 15% of the Vitamin A

    1. Vit. E

                                                               i.      Recent research INDICATES that vitamin E and Se can assist “tying up” in intensively trained animals

                                                             ii.      Usually feed 1% of the Vitamin A

    1. B vitamins

                                                               i.      For mature non-working horses, it is believed that microbial synthesis and subsequent absorption (with water) in the Large Intestine satisfies the needs of the animal.

                                                             ii.      Producing (working, growing, etc.) horses may require supplemental B vitamins.

                                                            iii.      Very little research has been done regarding B vitamin requirements.