Horse supplements: does your horse need them?

Powders, pellets, liquids… aimed at everything from a shiny coat to flexible joints. But let’s be honest: with so many options, it’s natural to wonder – does my horse really need this?

Many horse owners have stood in the tack shop or scrolled online asking themselves: “Is this supplement useful, or just clever marketing?” In this blog, we cover the basics: when supplements might make sense, when they may not, and how to make more conscious choices for your horse.

What Are Horse Supplements, Really?

Supplements are additions to the regular feed. They can, for example:
Offer extra support in certain situations
Make daily management a little more complete

Most fall into a few main categories:
- Vitamins and minerals – to cover possible gaps
- Joint products – often chosen for older or active horses
- Digestive support – for sensitive stomachs
- Electrolytes – often used in hot weather or during exercise

A supplement is not a miracle cure, but an addition.

Isn’t Forage or Feed Enough?

Often it is, but not always. Not every type of forage has the same nutritional value.
And sometimes you feed less commercial feed than the label recommends – which means your horse may not get everything that’s included.

Every horse has different needs depending on age, workload, or even stress. That’s why some owners decide to add something extra.

When Supplements Might Be Useful

Specific attention points
Not every horse is the same. Some do fine on the basics, others may be more sensitive. In those cases, an addition can be considered.

More training or work
Horses in regular exercise or that sweat more may have different needs, and feed adjustments can help with that.

An incomplete ration
Horses living mainly on hay or pasture might miss out on certain nutrients. A small addition can help balance things out.

Advice from a vet or nutritionist
Sometimes professional input makes the difference—such as after a check-up or blood test.

When You Might Not Need Them

Plenty of horses do perfectly well without supplements.
If the ration is balanced, body condition is good, and the horse looks and feels healthy, there may be no reason to add more. Over-supplementing can even lead to imbalances.

Tips for Choosing

Ask yourself:
1. What do I want to support my horse with?
2. Is this based on feeling, or on advice/analysis?
3. Are the ingredients and dosages clearly listed?

Also:
1. Introduce new products gradually
2. Monitor your horse’s behavior and condition
3. Avoid overlapping products with the same ingredients

So… Are Supplements Worth It?

It depends entirely on your horse and their situation. For some, they may be a helpful addition, for others unnecessary.

The most important thing is: know what you’re feeding, what might be missing, and make choices that fit. When in doubt, always seek professional advice.

At EquiElite, we believe good care starts with conscious feeding and management – and sometimes, a supplement can be part of that picture.