Oils can be added to a horse's diet to provide slow release (calm) energy with 3 cups of oil providing up to as much energy as 1kg of oats. Oils can also improve condition, coat shine and aid some health conditions. Oils contain omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids: omega-3 supports the immune system, promotes healthy skin, balances hormones, has an anti-inflammatory effect and can help relieve stiff joints and omega-6 helps the production of the skin's natural oils and helps to maintain healthy eyes and joints.
It is important to strike the right balance of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids as they both compete for enzymes in the body. Horses on an unrestricted forage only diet will receive a healthy balance of these essential fatty acids. However cereal diets are typically high in omega-6 and low in omega-3 so horses on cereal diets often need an additional source of omega-3 to maintain a healthy balance between these two fatty acids. As a rule no more than five times the amount of omega-6 to omega-3 should be consumed. An imbalance of omega-6 to omega-3 can result in laminitis, arthritis and skin problems.
Oils sold in supermarkets are heat processed and this destroys all the natural occurring ingredients whereas oils sold in feed merchants and tack shops are unprocessed and therefore most beneficial.
When introducing oil to a horse's diet it should be introduced slowly and oils should be stored in a cool, dark place to avoid it going rancid.
As oil is an oxidating ingredient, when feeding more than 100ml of oil per day it should be balanced with antioxidants such as Vitamin E.
Linseed (flax) oil
Linseed oil is rich in omega-3 and can help in producing a healthy, glossy coat, healthy skin, strong bones, stronger faster growing hooves, and boost the immune system. It is also a laxative when fed in large quantities.
Fish oils
Although fish oils are sold for horses and are high in omega-3, as horses are naturally vegetarian some consider a fish oil to be an unnatural food for horses. However, Cod Liver Oil can improve fertility in stallions and mares.
Soya oil
Soya oil contains both omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids, is high in energy, can improve stamina and coat and skin condition. It should not be fed to horses with arthritis, allergies or laminitis.
Sunflower seed oil
Sunflower seed oil is extremely high omega-6 and should be avoided if feeding a cereal diet.
