Another time when supplementation might be needed is for broodmares
and foals. Broodmares lacking vitamin A--such as those on a dry lot or
with poor-quality hay--are likely to have foals with lower birth weights,
slower growth, an increased chance of foals with congenital contracted
tendons, and an increased risk of retained placenta. One study showed
that supplementation with retinyl palmitate at twice the NRC values resulted
in higher pregnancy and foaling rates. Mares did not respond well
to water-dispersible beta-carotene.
Rich recommended that lactating
mares and foals be supplemented with folate (folic acid) until the foal is
three months of age, since it has been demonstrated that mares' milk folate
levels decline during the first three months of lactation, leaving foals
deficient. However, when foals begin to eat forage, their folate levels go
back up.
Rich discussed how vitamin K is important for blood clotting and
bone growth. Rich said that horses might have enough vitamin K in their diets
for blood clotting, but lack enough for proper bone metabolism.
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