Keeping Your Horse’s Heart Healthy: Essential Tips for Equine Cardiovascular Care

A strong heart is essential for a horse’s overall well-being, energy levels, and performance. Whether you own a competition horse, a working farm horse, or a beloved pasture companion, ensuring proper cardiovascular health is key to longevity and vitality. At Manning’s Feed and Seed, we care about your horse’s health and are here to provide the best nutritional and care advice to keep their heart in top shape.

Why Heart Health Matters in Horses

A horse's heart works tirelessly to pump oxygen-rich blood throughout the body. It plays a vital role in stamina, recovery, and endurance, especially in performance and working horses. Just like humans, horses can suffer from cardiovascular issues, including arrhythmias, murmurs, and heart disease. While these conditions may not be common, proactive care is essential to prevent future problems.

Key Factors in Equine Heart Health

1. Proper Nutrition

A balanced diet is crucial for maintaining heart health. Consider these key nutrients:

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Found in flaxseed and fish oil, these help reduce inflammation and support circulation.

• Magnesium & Potassium – Essential for proper muscle and heart function.

• Vitamin E & Selenium – Support cardiovascular function and prevent oxidative stress.

• Quality Forage & Grains – A balanced diet with adequate fiber and controlled starch levels prevents metabolic issues that may impact heart health.

Manning’s Feed and Seed offers premium equine feed options enriched with these essential nutrients, ensuring your horse receives the best possible diet for a healthy heart.

2. Regular Exercise

Just like humans, horses need consistent exercise to maintain heart and lung health. Incorporate a variety of activities:

• Light riding or lunging for leisure horses.

• Interval training for performance horses.

• Pasture turnout to encourage natural movement and grazing.

Gradual conditioning is key—avoid sudden intense workouts to prevent strain on the heart and circulatory system.

3. Routine Veterinary Check-Ups

Annual veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor heart function. A vet can listen for irregular heartbeats, murmurs, or other potential concerns. If your horse shows signs of fatigue, difficulty breathing, or swelling in the legs, consult a veterinarian immediately.

4. Stress Management

Stress and anxiety can impact a horse’s heart health. Minimize stress by:

• Providing a consistent daily routine.

• Ensuring adequate turnout time and socialization.

• Using calming supplements if needed, such as those with magnesium or chamomile.

5. Hydration & Electrolyte Balance

Proper hydration supports circulation and prevents heart strain. Ensure clean, fresh water is always available. In hot weather or after exercise, provide electrolyte supplements to replenish lost minerals.

Heart-Healthy Products at Manning’s Feed and Seed

We offer a variety of high-quality feeds, supplements, and care products designed to support your horse’s heart health. Visit us in-store or online to explore:

• Omega-3 enriched feeds

• Electrolyte supplements

• Vitamin E & Selenium boosters

• Low-starch, high-fiber feeds

Final Thoughts

Your horse’s heart is at the core of their well-being. By focusing on proper nutrition, exercise, regular veterinary care, stress reduction, and hydration, you can help ensure a long, healthy life for your equine companion. Stop by Manning’s Feed and Seed for expert advice and top-quality products to support your horse’s heart health year-round!

Have questions about your horse’s diet? Reach out to Manning’s Feed and Seed today for personalized nutrition recommendations!