Why Vitamin E is so important for your horse at the end of winter

Winter is coming to an end and the first signs of spring are becoming visible. For horses this means that pasture is coming into view again, but this transition period is a time when extra attention needs to be paid to your horse's vitamin E status. In this blog we explain why it is important to supplement vitamin E at the end of winter and how this benefits your horse's health.

10 March '25 - 2 min reading time

The role of vitamin E

Vitamin E is an essential antioxidant that helps protect body cells from free radical damage. It supports muscle function, the immune system and the general health of the horse. Horses normally get a large portion of their vitamin E from fresh grass, but in the winter months this is not or less available and horses must meet this need in other ways.

Shortages after winter

During the winter months, many horses are fed hay as their main food, but hay contains considerably less vitamin E than fresh grass. At the end of the season, the vitamin E in hay is minimal. Because the body cannot store a large supply of this vitamin, a deficiency can occur towards the end of the winter. This can manifest itself in:

• Stiff or weak muscles

• Reduced resistance

• Less energy and vitality

• Slower muscle recovery after exercise

  
  

Why replenish now?

At the end of winter, your horse’s reserves are often at their lowest. Although fresh grass will soon be available again, it takes a while for vitamin E levels to return to normal. By starting to supplement in time, you can prevent your horse from transitioning to the pasture with a deficiency. This not only helps maintain supple muscles and a strong immune system, but also ensures that your horse starts the pasture season fit and energetic. This is especially important for broodmares, as vitamin E plays an important role in fertility.

How can you supplement vitamin E?

There are several ways to supplement vitamin E:

• Via a supplement: There are special vitamin E supplements available that can easily be mixed with the food.

• In combination with selenium: Selenium helps with the absorption and functioning of vitamin E and can be a valuable addition if your horse also has a deficiency of this.

• Exactly without selenium: for horses with an increased vitamin E requirement. For example, for horses with muscle problems or that are high in the sport. You do not want a surplus of selenium, a form without selenium is a solution.

• With natural sources: Cold-pressed oils such as wheat germ oil contain natural vitamin E and can be a nice addition to the diet.

  
  

Conclusion: don't forget to supplement with vitamin E!

Vitamin E is an essential nutrient for horses, especially at the end of winter when reserves are depleted. By starting to supplement in time, you ensure that your horse remains supple and vital and is ready for the transition to the pasture. Do you want to know which vitamin E supplement suits your horse best? Then contact us!