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The importance of supplements for the future value of your young horse
In the lead-up to the young horse (yearling) auctions, enhancing physical development is crucial to ensure that they stand out and look their very best in the sales ring. Protein is an important nutritional component for supporting optimal muscle development.
Why is protein important as I prepare my young horse for sale?
Protein plays a vital role in preparing young horses for sale for several reasons:
Muscular Development: Protein is needed to build and repair muscle, which is essential for achieving an attractive, well-developed appearance in yearlings.
Bone Integrity: Protein, specifically its constituent amino acids, is vital for collagen production, which, in turn, supports bone integrity.
Limiting Amino Acids: Some amino acids, such as lysine, are described as “limiting” for growth, as they are essential for muscle development. Supplementation with limiting amino acids, like lysine, has been shown to significantly improve growth rates in weanlings and yearlings.
Supporting the Musculoskeletal System: Yearlings undergo exercises like walker exercise, hand walking, lunging, and long-reining to develop optimal muscular condition and an active walk. These exercises demand a specific profile of nutrients to support the musculoskeletal system. Investing in your young horse’s healthy musculoskeletal system will pay off dividends in the horse’s future as it will be more robust and avoid injury.
Meeting Increased Nutritional Needs: Young horses in sales preparation require an increased intake of nutrients to meet their growing and exercise-related needs.
However, it’s important to strike a balance, as overfeeding can lead to over-conditioning or temperament issues in young horses. Talk to your nutritionist if you are unsure about amounts and types of feed to feed your young horse.
When does my yearling need a protein supplement?
Including Protein supplements for young horses into the diet can be particularly beneficial for the following situations:
Immature Body Type: Yearlings that had an immature body type at the start of sales preparation may benefit from a protein supplement to aid in muscle development.
Poor Appetite: Yearlings that don’t generally eat well may require additional protein to ensure they get the necessary nutrients for growth.
Appetite Fluctuations: Yearlings that go off their feed during sales preparation can benefit from a protein supplement to maintain their nutritional intake.
Post-Illness Recovery: Yearlings recovering from illness during sales preparation may need extra protein to support their overall health and recovery.
Muscle Prep is a premium equine muscle-builder supplement, ideal for young horses preparing to go to auctions. It contains hydrolysed plant protein, providing readily absorbed essential amino acids for rapid muscle development. Additionally, it includes B vitamins to promote protein metabolism and Vitamin E to support muscle recovery and immune health. To achieve the best results, it’s recommended to follow the feeding guidelines daily for six weeks leading up to the sale date.
If you require expert guidance on choosing supplements or an appropriate diet for your horse, don’t hesitate to contact one of our equine nutrition specialists.
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Nicolas Gaumerais
Group Commercial Manager GCC Region
Based in the UAE, Nicolas Gaumerais is the Commercial Manager of the Connolly's RED MILLS Group which includes Foran Equine supplements and Connolly's RED MILLS horse feed in the GCC region. Nicholas regularly travels across the Gulf.