Biotin is B-vitamin that is water-soluble and is necessary for the proper functioning of a horse’s glucose and fat metabolism. Biotin is also essential for the epidermal tissues located in the horse’s skin and hoof wall. Horse that lack biotin often have cracked, brittle hooves, chronic laminitis, or dull coats.
Biotin deficiencies are rare and the amount of required biotin needed in a horse’s diet is still somewhat unclear. Researches are still trying to determine the biotin requirements for individual horses and their geographical location. Many experts have agreed that more biotin is not necessary better. Typically, horses that are receiving supplements receive about 15 to 20 mg per day.
Usually, biotin supplements are not necessary if a horse has a proper diet, ample grazing time, and a healthy intestinal tract. A healthy horse is typically able to produce enough biotin to suffice. Recent studies have proven that alfalfa and corn have high levels of biotin too.
If you want to use biotin supplements, it is recommended to verify your decision with an equine nutritionist’s. There are a variety of biotin supplement that can be purchased for a horse. Luckily, since biotin is a water-soluble vitamin, the kidneys will excrete any excess.
While supplements do work to improve the quality of the hoof, they take a long time to work. Noticeable effects typically appear after 5 to 8 months. Within that time period, ensure that the supplement is given according to the proper dosages in order to monitor any hoof or coat improvements.
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