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Written by: Jessica Konopinski
Published on: 04/24/2024
We hear that omega- 3’s are all the hype when it comes to enhancing our horse’s diet, but how does this actually benefit our horses? Any fatty acid, whether it be omega- 3’s or omega- 6’s, can provide positive change and support of both inflammation and immunity. [2] Even more attractive to horse owners, most fatty acids can be of a lower cost and still provide horses with a range of positive effects. A common misconception — especially for those with easy keepers — is that most fatty acids will cause weight gain. Believe it or not, you can avoid this while still reaping the benefits and we’ll show you just how.
The interesting thing about fatty acids is that horses can not naturally produce all the fatty acids that they need on their own. Therefore if a horse's everyday diet does not provide enough of these essential fatty acids, supplementation is key. The two most widely known fatty acids include omega-3’s and omega-6’s due to their ability to penetrate deep into the cell membrane. [1] They also offer retinal and neurological support. [1] While there are many benefits to both of these fatty acids, when it comes to horses, one is more desirable than the other.
Omega-6’s are known to be pro-inflammatory which can have an adverse effect on what we strive for in the health of our horses if they are given more than the necessary amount. Omega 3’s however are anti-inflammatory and more appropriate for the majority of horses. Some examples of oils high in omega 6’s include rice bran, vegetable oils and cereal grains. [1] Omega 6’s can absolutely lead to weight gain given that they are higher in calories.
Anti-inflammatory and immunity boosting benefits are more enticing for a horse’s diet because they can better aid in conditions such as arthritis, allergies, skin allergies, coat health, respiratory health and more. The most commonly known omega-3’s include sunflower oil, safflower oils, fish oils and flaxseed oils. The important thing when looking for a quality oil is to make sure it has an appropriate omega- 3 to omega- 6 ratio. For example, fish oil has an omega- 3 to omega- 6 ratio of 1:6, making this a highly recommended anti-inflammatory option.
Another highly effective omega- 3 oil is camelina oil. Camelina oil provides a unique omega-3 profile while providing skin and coat support with its high Vitamin E content. It also provides arthritic support, helps alleviate allergies and improves horse’s moods. Camelina oil has a 1.6:1 - 1.8:1 ratio of omega- 3’s to omega- 6’s, making it a great option for horses who are looking for anti-inflammatory support.
Most oils can absolutely cause a horse to gain weight which is a good thing if that is your goal. However this can be frustrating if you are just looking for the other added benefits. Luckily, most oils can be fed without causing your horse to gain weight if fed appropriately. Typically anywhere between 30-100 mL is an appropriate measure for most horses depending on their weight and personal needs. [2]
Specifically, the recommended dosage for camelina oil is 30mL once or twice daily. It’s always best to start out with one dose and increase when needed if you notice that your horse isn’t responding as you would like. From the start of implementation, it can take anywhere up to 12 weeks to notice a full difference when adding omega-3’s to your horse’s diet so it’s important to stay patient, consistent and to monitor your horses response closely.
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Jessica is a brand consultant who brings awareness and intention to equestrian and pet platforms. As a former collegiate equestrian athlete and animal lover, Jessica leads with passion and experience through her writing and brand work for companies who advocate for creating a difference in their space. When she's not riding her horse or walking her dog (with iced coffee in hand), you can find her sharing her love for health and wellness with others and integrating these practices in her everyday work.
