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Horse Supplements for the Stallion
The breeding stallion works diligently throughout his reproductive life, starting early – some before they are even 3 years old – and, if successful, continuing well into his later years. The physical demands of covering, expectations of multiple covers per day, and travel can all take their toll.
Fertility is one of the first things to be affected if a stallion isn’t receiving optimal nutrition. There are specific nutrients that are closely associated with the fertility and reproductive performance of stallions, so it is crucial to ensure that deficiencies are avoided.
Sperm quality
Equine sperm cells have a remarkably high concentration of polyunsaturated fatty acids in their plasma membrane, as much as 30% more than other species. Changes to the fat composition of the stallion’s diet have been shown to impact the quality of sperm produced. Increased levels of equine omega-3 fatty acids have been demonstrated to enhance the overall quantity and quality of sperm in stallions with poor fertility. Since omega-3s are naturally low in hay/haylage, providing additional sources of omega-3 is necessary.
One consequence of this higher concentration of polyunsaturated fatty acids is an increased vulnerability of equine sperm cells to a process called lipid peroxidation. This process is a type of oxidative stress induced by particles called free radicals and can cause cellular damage, which can extend to the DNA of the sperm cells, potentially affecting any resulting embryo.
Free radicals are a by-product of all cellular processes. As equine sperm cells are highly motile, their rate of metabolism (and energy requirement) is high, generating higher levels of free radicals, further increasing their susceptibility to oxidative stress. It is the role of antioxidants to neutralize free radicals, making these compounds extremely important for the reproductive health of stallions.
Physical and mental demands
Covering a mare is a highly physically demanding exercise, requiring high levels of energy and putting strain on the hindleg joints, particularly when delivering multiple covers per day. Add to this the rigors of travel, as is often the case for many performance horses, and it is easy to understand how stallions can begin to show signs of fatigue and even reluctance, especially at the peak of their breeding season.
The constant changes in environment and stimulation can also make some stallions highly strung, affecting their welfare and increasing their risk of injury or less successful coverings.
Understanding the demands on a stallion like this can help tailor his diet to support all aspects of his work, which may include supplementation to eliminate the chance of deficiencies affecting reproductive performance
V.S.L. Liquid delivers a combination of antioxidants and amino acids for horses to support mares and stallions throughout the breeding season. Other specific equine vitamins and minerals included are Vitamin E and selenium for horsesto further combat damaging oxidative stress known to have a detrimental effect on spermatozoa. L-lysine, an essential amino acid for horses is also included to maximize muscle function and recovery of the stallion.
Kentucky Karron Oil, our premium oil supplement for horses provides a rich, superior quality source of omega-3 fatty acids in a highly bioavailable format. This highly palatable form of emulsified linseed oil for horses provides additional calories to help maintain healthy body condition of your stallion and aid all bodily functions while also encouraging optimal feed intake thanks to its highly palatable formulation.
Ost-O-flex, our equine joint supplement is highly effective for supporting mobility and joint function in breeding stallions. It contains glucosamine, a key component of cartilage, MSM for joint and ligament health, and marine collagen as a source of calcium, chondroitinsulfate, and hyaluronic acid,
With a combination of calming essential amino acids, L-tryptophan, vitamins, and magnesium for horses, our horse calmer, Nutri-Calm naturally supports the breeding stallion in staying focused throughout his breeding season. Stallions can get quite worked up and excitable so for rapid, targeted support (e.g., before travel), Nutri-Calm Gel is ideally formulated into a convenient oral syringe.
For more advice on feeding and supplementation for stallions, speak to one of our advisers.
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Mohammad Agha
Senior Sales Consultant, Arab Markets
Based in Kuwait, Mohammad Agha serves as the Senior Sales Consultant for Connolly’s RED MILLS Group, representing a prestigious portfolio of products including Connolly’s RED MILLS horse feeds, Foran Equine Supplements, and Carr & Day & Martin Equine care products across the Arabian markets.