Similar to protein, requirements for vitamins and minerals increase with bigger workload. But the ratios of these nutrients relative to calorie requirements remain consistent. Therefore, the increased requirements are met with a well-fortified performance horse feed provided in adequate amounts to meet energy demands.
Vitamins and minerals are needed in very small quantities. It is often difficult to recognize moderate deficiencies or excesses. However, maintaining appropriate levels of these nutrients is essential to ensure long-term health, soundness and performance of the horse. This is particularly true for nutrients involved in energy metabolism including Bvitamins, electrolytes (sodium, potassium and chloride), structural minerals such as calcium and phosphorus, and antioxidants such as vitamin E and selenium.
Some vitamins, including Vitamin C and some B-vitamins (biotin, riboflavin and niacin) have no established dietary…