Selenium is an essential mineral that is necessary for the proper functioning of the body. It is found naturally in food and is also available in supplement form. Selenium plays an important role in many bodily functions, including the immune system, metabolism, and thyroid function.
Selenium is also important for horses, as it helps to maintain healthy hooves, skin, and coat. It is also necessary for reproduction, as it helps to ensure healthy sperm production.
How Much Selenium Does A Horse Need?
Horses require selenium in their diet to maintain good health. The amount of selenium that a horse needs will depend on the horse’s age, activity level, and the amount of selenium found in the environment.
In general, horses need between 0.1 and 0.3 mg of selenium per day. For horses in heavy work, the requirement may be higher.
What Happens If A Horse Gets Too Much Selenium?
Selenium toxicity can occur when a horse consumes too much selenium. Selenium toxicity can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
- Skin problems: skin lesions, scaly skin, and itching
- Gastrointestinal issues: nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Neurological issues: weakness, depression, and seizures
If left untreated, selenium toxicity can be fatal. It is important to be aware of the symptoms of selenium toxicity so that it can be treated promptly.
What Causes Selenium Toxicity In Horses?
Selenium toxicity in horses is most commonly caused by over-supplementation. Horses can also be exposed to too much selenium through their feed or water.
Forages such as grasses, hay, and grains can contain high levels of selenium if they are grown in areas with soils that are naturally high in selenium. Some supplements, such as those that contain vitamin E, can also contain high levels of selenium.
How Can Selenium Toxicity Be Prevented?
Selenium toxicity can be prevented by avoiding over-supplementation and making sure that feed and water sources do not contain high levels of selenium.
It is important to only supplement horses with selenium when it is indicated by a veterinarian. The amount of selenium in a supplement should not exceed the recommended daily allowance, and it should not be given more often than the directions indicate.
How Is Selenium Toxicity Diagnosed?
Selenium toxicity is typically diagnosed through a combination of clinical signs, laboratory tests, and environmental exposure.
Clinical signs of selenium toxicity include skin lesions, scaly skin, and itching. Laboratory tests can measure the levels of selenium in a horse’s blood and urine.
How Is Selenium Toxicity Treated?
Selenium toxicity can be treated with chelating agents such as dimercaprol and sodium 2,3-dimercaptopropane sulfonate. These agents bind to the selenium and help the body to excrete it.
In addition, supportive care such as intravenous fluids and nutritional support may be necessary to help the horse recover.
Conclusion
Selenium is an essential mineral that is necessary for the proper functioning of the body. Horses require selenium in their diet to maintain good health, but it is important to avoid over-supplementation. Selenium toxicity can cause a variety of symptoms and can be fatal if left untreated. Selenium toxicity can be prevented by avoiding over-supplementation and making sure that feed and water sources do not contain high levels of selenium. Selenium toxicity can be treated with chelating agents and supportive care.