//Manganese for Horses – Uses, Signs of Deficiency & Requirements – Equine Nutrition/
Manganese for Horses - Uses, Signs of Deficiency & Requirements - Equine Nutrition
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Manganese is a trace mineral that is essential for bone development, reproductive function, digestion of fats and carbohydrates, disease resistance and for normal enzyme activity.

It is required by horses to form chondroitin sulfate – a component of cartilage found in joints.

It is recommended for horses to consume 400-500 mg of manganese per day.

Severe manganese deficiency is rare and not well described in horses. Young growing animals are most at risk of manganese deficiency which could cause problems related to:

– unusual bone formation
– enlarged joints
– crooked limbs
– abnormal cartilage formation

These signs of deficiency have been observed in cows and pigs.

Manganese toxicity has not been demonstrated in horses.

Manganese is also required to form the natural endogenous antioxidant superoxide dismutase that protects cells from oxidative stress to keep tissues healthy.

Wondering if your horse could benefit from more manganese in their diet? Contact Mad Barn for a complimentary diet assessment and on of our equine nutritionists will be happy to help!