Does your horse seem a little jumpy, tense, or maybe even a bit “hot” under saddle? You’re not alone. Many horse owners notice these behaviors and wonder if there’s a natural way to help their equine partners feel calmer and more relaxed. It’s a common concern, and often, the answer lies in a vital mineral that plays a huge role in a horse’s well-being: Magnesium.
Choosing the right magnesium supplement for your horse can feel like navigating a maze. With so many products on the market, it’s tough to know which one is best. You want to help your horse, but you also want to avoid wasting money on something that won’t work. This post will cut through the confusion. We’ll explore why magnesium is so important and how it can make a real difference in your horse’s mood and performance.
By the end of this guide, you’ll understand the signs of magnesium deficiency, learn what to look for in a supplement, and feel confident in your ability to choose a product that supports your horse’s health and happiness. Let’s dive in and discover how magnesium can unlock a calmer, more focused equine partner.
Top Magnesium For Horses Recommendations
- 10 lbs - 80 servings (Pellets)
- 20 lbs - 160 servings (Pellets)
- High Concentration: This horse magnesium supplement contains 5,000 mg per serving; The serving is 8.8 grams of magnesium oxide for horse's daily maintenance, suitable to supplement their needs at any stage of life
- Multi-Faceted Support: This magnesium powder supplement for horses supports muscle and nervous system function, encouraging a calm and focused demeanor and contributing to overall equine wellness
- Easy Administration: The magnesium oxide powder for horses can be easily administered to your horse thanks to its convenient powder form; Easily mixed in with their daily feed powder and doesn’t typically mix well with treats
- Smart & Simple Supplements: The Smart & Simple product line aims to provide support through single-ingredient solutions
- One of a Kind: SmartEquine has been a trusted name in the horse health and wellness industry for over 25 years. With a strong reputation for high-quality supplements backed by science, products thoughtfully designed to meet each horse’s unique needs, and a world-class team of dedicated equestrians, we aim to provide one-of-a-kind solutions to meet each and every horse’s individualized concerns
- ANXIETY RELIEF - Designed to help nervous and/or excitable horses relax and improve their ability to concentrate on work and training
- ENHANCED FOCUS - Formulated with complete support to help your horse achieve a balanced central nervous system
- SHOW SAFE - This product is not a sedative, and is completely show-safe for use before and during competition in all major federations
- THREE POWERFUL INGREDIENTS - L-Tryptophan aids serotonin delivery and can decrease anxiety; Thiamine (B1) addresses nutritional deficiencies and metabolic processes; Magnesium supports calm, relaxed muscles
- MADE IN THE USA - All our products are manufactured in our own facility in Colorado, since 1946
- Nupafeed
- Calming aid
- Also available in 5L size and concentrated tubes
- 3L
- Contains: Contains Magnesium - Aspartate - Hydrochloride (MAH), Water, Potassium Sorbate
- Essential Muscle Support: Formulated with 5,000 mg of magnesium per serving to help maintain normal muscle function and reduce muscle tension in horses, supporting relaxation and optimal physical performance during training and competition
- Metabolic Health Enhancement: Aids in regulating glucose metabolism and blood sugar levels while supporting energy production and protein synthesis, contributing to your horse's overall metabolic efficiency and vitality
- Natural Calming Properties: Addresses magnesium deficiency-related agitation and anxiety, promoting a calm and focused demeanor in horses that may be nervous, excitable, or stressed in various situations
- Comprehensive Wellness Formula: Supports healthy nerve function, cardiovascular health, immune system strength, and bone integrity, providing multi-system benefits for your horse's complete well-being
- Convenient Bulk Supply: Comes in a generous 50-pound bag that provides 400 servings for long-lasting supplementation for multiple horses, making it an economical choice for horse owners and stable managers
- 40 lbs - 320 servings (Pellets)
- Supports Anxious Behavior
- Support Glucose Metabolism
- Supports Muscle Function
- NASC Quality Guaranteed
- HORSE CALMER: SU-PER Mag Pro is a magnesium supplement designed to provide a calming effect and support normal behavior in horses with magnesium deficiencies. It is useful for addressing issues such as irritability, lack of focus, or skittishness.
- METABOLIC SUPPORT: Mag Pro supports normal metabolic function and energy production in horses so it helps to mitigate the issues with metabolism, low energy, and behavioral issues due to Magnesium deficiency.
- EASY ABSPORTION: Mag Pro utilizes Magnesium Proteinate with no fillers, flavors or additives. It has a chelated form that is easily absorbed and provides an easily digested form of bioavailable Magnesium.
- PERFORMANCE SUPPORT: Performance horses are often at risk of magnesium deficiency, especially during strenuous exercise or competition. Mag Pro helps address magnesium deficiencies, supporting the balance of these minerals in the horse's diet.
- EASY TO USE: Each scoop of our horse calmer supplement contains more than 2,100 mg of elemental magnesium, providing a convenient and effective way to supplement magnesium in the horse's feed.
Choosing the Right Magnesium for Your Horse
Magnesium is an important mineral for horses. It helps their bodies work well. This guide will help you pick the best magnesium supplement for your horse. We will cover what to look for, what makes good magnesium, and how people use it.
1. Key Features to Look For
Essential Nutrients
Good magnesium supplements offer pure magnesium. They also might have other helpful things. Some might have Vitamin E. Vitamin E works with magnesium to help muscles. Look for supplements that clearly list the amount of magnesium per serving. This helps you give your horse the right amount.
Form of Magnesium
Magnesium comes in different forms. Some are easier for horses to absorb. Magnesium oxide is common. It’s less expensive. However, horses don’t absorb it as well. Magnesium citrate and magnesium glycinate are better absorbed. They cost more. Look for a form that your horse can use well.
Ease of Use
How easy is it to give the supplement to your horse? Some supplements come as a powder. You can mix it with their feed. Others are pellets. Pellets can be easier to handle and measure. Some horses might not like the taste of certain supplements. Check reviews to see if horses tend to eat it well.
2. Important Materials and Ingredients
Magnesium Sources
The main ingredient is magnesium. It can come from different sources. Magnesium oxide is one. Magnesium carbonate is another. Magnesium sulfate is also used. As mentioned, magnesium citrate and magnesium glycinate are good choices for absorption. The source matters for how well your horse’s body uses the magnesium.
Binders and Fillers
Some supplements use binders. These help hold pellets together. Fillers add bulk. Look for supplements with minimal fillers. Too many fillers can mean less active magnesium. Natural ingredients are often better. Avoid artificial colors or flavors if possible.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Purity and Concentration
A high-quality supplement has pure magnesium. The concentration of magnesium should be high. This means you get more magnesium with each dose. Products with a lot of fillers or other ingredients might be lower quality. Always check the label for the guaranteed analysis.
Absorption Rate
How well your horse’s body takes in the magnesium is very important. Some forms are absorbed better than others. Magnesium citrate is known for good absorption. If a supplement is not well absorbed, your horse won’t get the full benefit. This can reduce the quality of the supplement for your horse.
Manufacturing Practices
How a supplement is made matters. Reputable companies follow good manufacturing practices. This ensures the product is safe and consistent. Look for brands that are transparent about their production. This improves the overall quality.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Calming Anxious Horses
Many horse owners use magnesium for horses that are nervous or spooky. Magnesium helps nerves and muscles relax. A calm horse is safer to ride and handle. Owners often see a difference in their horse’s behavior. They report their horses are less reactive to sudden noises or movements.
Supporting Muscle Function
Magnesium is vital for healthy muscle function. It helps muscles contract and relax properly. Horses that work hard or have muscle soreness can benefit. Athletes and performance horses often receive magnesium. It can help prevent cramps and support recovery after exercise.
Horses on Pasture or with Diet Deficiencies
Some horses don’t get enough magnesium from their diet. Horses on lush pasture might get too much of other minerals. This can block magnesium absorption. Horses with certain health issues might also need more. Magnesium supplements help fill these gaps.
Choosing the right magnesium supplement helps your horse feel and perform their best. Always talk to your veterinarian before starting any new supplement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main benefits of magnesium for horses?
A: Magnesium helps calm nervous horses, supports muscle function, and can prevent muscle cramps. It is important for overall health.
Q: How much magnesium does my horse need?
A: The amount varies. It depends on your horse’s size, activity level, and diet. Your veterinarian can help determine the right dose.
Q: Can I give my horse too much magnesium?
A: It is possible, though rare for horses to overdose on oral magnesium. Excessive amounts can cause diarrhea. Stick to recommended dosages.
Q: What are the signs of magnesium deficiency in horses?
A: Signs can include nervousness, muscle tremors, poor appetite, and weakness. Some horses may also have a poor coat.
Q: How long does it take to see results from magnesium supplements?
A: Results can vary. Some owners see changes in behavior within a few days. Others might see improvements in muscle function over a few weeks.
Q: Should I choose a powder or pellet form?
A: Both can be effective. Powders mix easily into feed. Pellets are convenient for measuring and handling. Choose what works best for you and your horse.
Q: Can magnesium help with laminitis?
A: Magnesium can play a role in supporting hoof health. It is not a cure for laminitis but can be part of a management plan. Always consult your vet.
Q: What is the best form of magnesium for horses?
A: Forms like magnesium citrate and magnesium glycinate are generally better absorbed by horses than magnesium oxide.
Q: How should I store magnesium supplements?
A: Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the container tightly closed.
Q: Can I give magnesium with other supplements?
A: Yes, magnesium can often be given with other supplements. However, it’s always best to check with your veterinarian to ensure there are no interactions.