Magnesium

Signs of a Magnesium Deficiency in Horses

Research by Kees Kalis of the Animal Health Service shows that over 20% of healthy horses have a magnesium deficiency. This can manifest as a tense horse, as muscles are less able to relax with a lack of magnesium. If you suspect a magnesium deficiency in your horse, you can have a blood test done by the veterinarian. If a deficiency is confirmed, you can consider adding a magnesium supplement to the ration and having another blood test done after some time.

Magnesium for Horses: Relaxation, Muscle Function, and Concentration

Magnesium is an essential mineral for horses and plays an important role in muscle and nervous system function. It supports muscle relaxation, reduces tension and nervousness, and contributes to better concentration. Sport horses, horses in heavy training, or horses sensitive to stress can particularly benefit from extra magnesium in their diet.

Why Give Magnesium Supplements?

Although magnesium is present in roughage, absorption can vary and sometimes be insufficient. Supplementation can help with:

• Relaxing muscles and preventing muscle tension.
• Support during stressful situations such as competitions or transport.
• Improving focus and concentration during training.
• Supporting recovery after strenuous exercise.

Different Forms of Magnesium

Not all forms of magnesium are absorbed equally well by the horse.

• Magnesium Citrate – well-absorbed form, suitable for quick support.
• Magnesium Chelate – very high bioavailability.
• Magnesium Oxide – economical, but less well-absorbed.

There are various types of magnesium supplements on the market. The difference lies mainly in absorbability and elemental magnesium content. Less absorbable forms include magnesium chloride, phosphate, acetate, sulfate, and carbonate. Magnesium citrate is a well-absorbed form but contains only 16% elemental magnesium. Magnesium oxide is absorbed slightly less well but contains 60% elemental magnesium. At Dochorse, for example, we offer the Synovium Mgnium supplement, which combines different forms of magnesium, making it well-absorbed. This supplement also contains some B vitamins, which further increase magnesium absorption.

How Do You Know If Your Horse Needs Extra Magnesium?

Signs of a possible magnesium deficiency include muscle tension, nervousness, reduced performance, spookiness, or difficulty relaxing. A blood test can provide clarity, but the effect of supplementation is often noticeable within a few weeks.

Our Range of Magnesium Supplements

At Dochorse, you will find a wide range of magnesium supplements for horses from reputable brands such as Sectolin, Synovium, Puur, Equine America, and Vitalstyle. Our specialists are ready to help you make the right choice, so your horse can optimally benefit from magnesium.

Pharmahorse Magnesium - Optimal Support for Your Horse

One of our bestsellers is Pharmahorse Magnesium Citrate, specially developed for horses. This supplement supports your horse's mood, aids in maintaining supple muscles, and is beneficial for nerve impulse transmission to the muscles. Additionally, Pharmahorse Magnesium contains an important mineral for bones and metabolism. 

Personal Advice on Magnesium for Horses

Do you have questions about magnesium for horses or are you looking for personal advice? Please feel free to contact our team of experts. We can tell you exactly which product suits your horse and how to address a potential magnesium deficiency.