What is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies in horses?

Vitamin E deficiency is indeed one of the more frequently encountered nutritional deficiencies in horses. This vitamin plays a crucial role in maintaining muscle health, immune function, and overall well-being. Horses that do not have access to green pasture or that are fed primarily stored hay may not receive adequate amounts of Vitamin E, as this nutrient is typically abundant in fresh forage.

Vitamin E is essential for the proper functioning of muscle tissue and can prevent serious conditions like equine degenerative myeloencephalopathy (EDM) and myopathy. Identifying Vitamin E deficiency is important, as it can lead to neurological issues and weakness in the horse if left unaddressed.

While deficiencies in other vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin A and calcium, can occur, they are less common compared to Vitamin E, especially in horses that are primarily fed hay or lack access to fresh forage. Vitamin C is generally synthesized by horses in adequate amounts, making deficiency rare. Therefore, recognizing Vitamin E deficiency is vital for maintaining the health and performance of horses.