Selenium is a micronutrient that is considered essential for both humans as well as animals. While this element is absorbed by plants from the soil, animals and humans derive selenium from plant sources. As selenium is required in very small amounts, deficiency of this trace mineral is very rare. However, it has been noticed that those who reside in places, where the soil is deficient in selenium, may develop selenium deficiency (as plants that grow in such soil will have almost no selenium). Even certain medical conditions may prevent the body from absorbing selenium. Though selenium deficiency is uncommon in humans, animals can be more prone to develop this condition. This article deals with the various aspects of the use of selenium for horses.

Selenium and Horses

Though, the element selenium was initially noticed for its toxic effects, later, researches revealed that it is essential for various bodily functions in mammals. This trace mineral is found to play key roles in various bodily mechanisms, including the thyroid metabolism. It is also said to be vital for cell functions, boosting immunity, etc. It is said to be an excellent antioxidant that fights free radicals.

Horses derive their daily dose of selenium from the food they eat. Whether it is grass, oats, barley or hay, the selenium content in the food may vary with the selenium content of the soil in which these plants grow. It has been estimated that horses need less than 0.1 milligram of selenium, per kilogram of the food they require for a day. According to the FDA, an average horse requires 3 mg of selenium per day. While selenium deficiency may cause health problems in them, this trace mineral may cause serious side effects, if consumed in excess. The next paragraphs will provide you with information about selenium deficiency and toxicity.

Selenium Deficiency and Toxicity in Horses

As mentioned above, horses that are exclusively fed with foods that are grown in selenium-deficient soil are prone to develop deficiency of the trace mineral. Horses with this condition are found to develop muscle cramps, which may lead to tying up or azoturia. They may also be prone to infections, and even wounds may take time to heal. Another complication that may develop from selenium deficiency in horses is white muscle disease or nutritional muscular dystrophy. This condition affects the heart and skeletal muscles in horses. In that case, the animal may have selenium deficiency symptoms like brownish urine, difficulty in swallowing, fast heart rate, etc. Read the rest of this entry »