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Feeding oils to horses has long been promoted as a dense energy source and a safer alternative to grain. But the advantages of dietary oils go far beyond just replacing starch. From reducing the risk of laminitis to improving exercise performance, oils play a significant role in equine health and performance.
Most horses consume small amounts of natural oils through pasture and grains. However, research and experience show that horses can efficiently digest and utilise higher levels of oil in their diets.
Horses produce bile continuously (unlike some other species) and release it directly into the duodenum. Bile aids in the digestion and absorption of oils. Once adapted to oil-rich diets, horses increase bile production and blood lipoprotein levels, supporting efficient oil metabolism through fatty acid oxidation.
Oil contains about twice the energy of carbohydrates or protein. This makes it an excellent option for:
High-starch diets can cause behavioural issues like excitability or "fizziness." Replacing grain with oil provides a non-heating energy source that avoids the risks of:
Oil metabolism generates significantly less heat than fermenting fibre or digesting protein. This reduces internal heat load and helps horses working in hot environments stay cooler. Additionally, oil metabolism produces more water than carbohydrate or protein metabolism, which helps horses manage fluid loss from sweating.
EPSM is associated with carbohydrate metabolism disorders. A high-oil, low-starch (NSC) diet is essential for affected horses, reducing clinical signs and supporting energy needs without relying on carbohydrates.
RER is often triggered by stress and grain feeding in nervous horses. Replacing grains with oil can help stabilise blood sugar and reduce the risk of tying-up episodes.
Once adapted to oil, horses can use it for aerobic (submaximal) energy, sparing muscle glycogen. This means: More glycogen is available for anaerobic (high-intensity) work Horses may experience delayed fatigue Improved endurance and recovery Note: Submaximal exercise is typically performed at heart rates below 160 bpm, while anaerobic exercise occurs above 160 bpm.
No. The type of oil matters.
Unsaturated oils (e.g., vegetable oils) are absorbed through the lymphatic system and transported to the liver.
Coconut oil is a saturated oil and is rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are absorbed directly into the bloodstream via the portal vein and rapidly metabolised by the liver for quick non glucose energy.
Feeds like CoolStance® (coconut-based) offer a clean, palatable way to supplement oil, providing horses with energy without mess or added starch (NSC).
Feeding oil to horses is more than just an alternative energy source. It can:
By choosing the right type and amount of oil, horse owners can help their animals perform better, stay healthier, and avoid many common dietary pitfalls.
