Optimizing your horse’s nutrition is one of the most effective ways to support their long-term health and performance. While a balanced diet provides a strong foundation, targeted supplements can help address specific needs from joint support and digestion to coat condition and energy levels. Here’s how to enhance your horse’s feeding program with smart, simple additions that deliver meaningful results.

Of course, not every horse has the same nutritional requirements. Factors like age, activity level, environment, and health conditions can influence what they need beyond their basic diet. That’s where supplementation comes in.

While regular foraging and grain feeds provide a strong base, some horses may need additional nutritional support. Supplements can be especially beneficial if your horse has limited access to pasture, is on a hay-only diet, is managing a health issue like joint pain or digestion problems, or is involved in heavy work, training, or competition. They can also help improve coat condition, build muscle tone, and enhance overall performance.

To help fill any nutritional gaps, vitamin and mineral supplements are a wise addition, particularly for horses on hay-only or low-grain diets. Equine Super Diet is a pelletized, highly concentrated vitamin and mineral formula that’s perfect for pregnant mares, growing foals, racehorses, show horses, and ponies. Another great option is Apple-A-Day, a mineral supplement that supports hydration, replenishes electrolytes, and encourages healthy appetite and water consumption — all without dyes or added sugars.

If joint health is a concern, there are a number of supplements designed to keep your horse’s cartilage, tendons, and ligaments in tip top shape. Equitop Gonex, formulated with green-lipped mussel extract and a unique glycogen complex, helps maintain flexible joints and strong connective tissue. Dechra Phycox MAX EQ Granules offer powerful antioxidant support with phycocyanin to protect joints and cartilage, while Glucosamine-MSM-Vitamin C delivers a blend of joint-loving ingredients in a tasty, molasses-flavored powder to support mobility and ease discomfort from joint pain and inflammation.

Before adding any new supplement to your horse’s routine, remember to introduce it gradually to avoid upsetting digestion. It’s also important to check if your horse’s feed is already fortified — you may not need a full-dose vitamin or mineral supplement if it is. Watch for overlap with certain nutrients, like selenium, as too much can be harmful. And most importantly, keep it simple by focusing on one or two specific goals at a time, such as supporting joint health or hydration, rather than trying to address everything at once.

Helping your horse thrive with the right supplements doesn’t have to be complicated — and the difference you’ll see in their energy, performance, and overall health can be truly amazing. Ready to explore the options? Explore the full collection at Pets Drug Mart, or connect with our team for guidance in choosing the best fit for your horse’s individual needs.