The effect of magnesium on the nervous system of horses

Many horse owners give their horse magnesium. But why would you do that? Isn't there enough magnesium in regular feed? And what function does this mineral actually have in the nervous system of horses?

6 December '24 - 2 min reading

Horses that work hard, sweat a lot, are pregnant or have a foal at foot, use more magnesium. Horses that are very nervous or hot also usually have a higher magnesium requirement.

Versatile mineral

Magnesium is important for around 300 bodily processes. The mineral is important for the health of your horse's bones, muscles and nervous system. It also plays a role in energy supply and metabolism. Magnesium also has a positive effect on focus and mood. In short: a horse that gets enough magnesium can concentrate, has supple muscles, enough energy and recovers easily after training.

Magnesium against stress

The mineral magnesium plays a crucial role in the nervous system of horses. Scientific studies have shown that magnesium helps regulate signal transmission between nerve cells. In other words, this mineral ensures that the nervous system can communicate well. Better signal transmission contributes to a calm and balanced state of mind. Magnesium is therefore beneficial for nervous or stressed horses. A stressed or anxious horse also uses more magnesium than a naturally cooler horse. Magnesium is not only important for the nervous system. A well-absorbable magnesium supplement can help reduce muscle cramps and stiffness and promote overall flexibility. Especially in sports horses that have to exert themselves a lot.

Need extra magnesium?

Magnesium can be found in roughage, but some horses need more. In some cases, a supplement can be useful. Also good to know: in the Netherlands, there is often little magnesium in roughage, especially if it comes from poor sandy soils. Not all horses have a magnesium deficiency, but it is a common phenomenon. Especially in sick or stressed horses and in sports horses.

Supplementing magnesium?

Horses that are under a lot of stress or have to make great efforts can benefit from a magnesium supplement. It is also important to ask yourself how much calcium they get, for example through feed such as alfalfa. Because calcium can hinder the absorption of magnesium, a diet that is high in calcium can cause a magnesium deficiency in your horse. If you suspect a magnesium deficiency, you can give extra magnesium for a while and see if your horse improves. Any excess magnesium is simply excreted in urine. It is important to give magnesium in a well-absorbable form such as liquid magnesium chelate.