Hästens behov av B-vitaminer

Abstract: Feed supplements containing B-vitamins are marketed as having a calming effect on nervous horses, improving the function of the hindgut, easing the change of coat and increasing the growth and quality of hoofs. The aim of this literature study was to review whether and when horses have a requirement of B-vitamin supplements, and if studies can validate the statements used in the marketing. Since the middle of the 20th century, studies have shown that thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxin, folic acid, biotin and cobalamin are synthesised in the colon of the horse. Apart from in experimental studies with B-vitamin deficient diets, clinical symptoms of vitamin B deficiency have never been reported in horses. A calming effect of thiamine supplementation on nervous horses has both been proven and disproven in studies, but an orally supply of the vitamin has not shown any calming effect. Feeding horses high doses of biotin have shown positive results in the growth and quality of the hoof horn. Using B-vitamin supplements for improving the function of the hindgut and easing the change of coat has not been investigated in studies and the statements used in marketing can therefore not be validated.