Horse skeleton isn’t really something that would bother us in an everyday life. Set of bones put together in certain order, that’s all. We obviously start being more interested when let’s say injury, poor performance or problems with fitting tack occur. Why is it important then to know a bit about skeletal system of our horse even though an animal seems to be perfectly ok?
Skeleton system is vital. There’s approx. 205 bones to provide a good protection of internal organs and muscles within horse’s body and create a body structure (framework). Not to mention that they also support horse’s weight. Horse’s skeleton isn’t really something that we can easily change. We can affect horse shape by building up the muscles but we can’t directly change the shape or position of bones (just a quick word – in this case I’m excluding deformations, fractures or neglecting animals etc). We can make bones stronger and more resistant though. Poor bone quality will affect performance and horse wellbeing.
The basic and sufficient care for bones would include good stable management, sensible workload for a horse and providing enough calcium and phosphorus in a diet. We must remember that bone is a living organism and needs constant mineral supply. Therefore calcium and phosphorus are essential. Calcium can be provided by feeding leafy green foods like alfalfa. Phosphorus works closely with calcium and can be obtained from cereals. If you are concerned your horse isn’t getting enough minerals to support his skeletal system you may also add a limestone flour supplement to its diet. Remember to carefully read the label, not to overdose and if any doubts – talk to your vet.
Skeleton system is vital. There’s approx. 205 bones to provide a good protection of internal organs and muscles within horse’s body and create a body structure (framework). Not to mention that they also support horse’s weight. Horse’s skeleton isn’t really something that we can easily change. We can affect horse shape by building up the muscles but we can’t directly change the shape or position of bones (just a quick word – in this case I’m excluding deformations, fractures or neglecting animals etc). We can make bones stronger and more resistant though. Poor bone quality will affect performance and horse wellbeing.
The basic and sufficient care for bones would include good stable management, sensible workload for a horse and providing enough calcium and phosphorus in a diet. We must remember that bone is a living organism and needs constant mineral supply. Therefore calcium and phosphorus are essential. Calcium can be provided by feeding leafy green foods like alfalfa. Phosphorus works closely with calcium and can be obtained from cereals. If you are concerned your horse isn’t getting enough minerals to support his skeletal system you may also add a limestone flour supplement to its diet. Remember to carefully read the label, not to overdose and if any doubts – talk to your vet.
You may find some limestone flour supplement online here:
Facts to remember:
- approx. 205 bones
- protection, support, framework
- calcium and phosphorus are essential
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