Know what fats to feed your horse: the difference between omega-3 and omega-6 oils

As a result of growing interest in supplement science, our understanding of the benefits of micro-nutrients for horses has come on leaps and bounds over the last decade. A particular nutrient group that has been attracting a lot of the limelight is the omega fatty acids, which has created somewhat of an ‘omega movement’.

This has seen the development of a vast array of equine nutritional supplements including those designed for coat, joint, and hoof health. It is now understood that omega fatty acids are beneficial for: improving fertility, helping the immune system, respiratory conditions and neurological conditions, as well as being good for exercise recovery.

What is the omega fatty acid group and why is it important?

Omega molecules are triglycerides that consist of a glycerol molecule with three long-chain fatty acids attached. The fatty acid chains are made up of carbon atoms (also known as the carboxyl group) and they are polyunsaturated, meaning there is more than one double bond between the carbon atoms.

Omega 3 and 6 have gained the most attention for the important nutritional role they play, but also because they cannot be synthesised by the body and therefore must be supplied via the diet.

These fatty acids have a host of important functions including the role of helping maintain cell membrane integrity, neural and retinal development, and mediating immunity and inflammation within the body.

Omegas 3 and 6 are both polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA’s), however, the difference in their numbers refers to the difference in where the first of the double carbon bonds occurs. In omega-3 fatty acids, the first double bond occurs on the third carbon atom, but in omega-6 fatty acids, the first double bond is on the sixth carbon atom. Although this structural difference may seem subtle, it massively affects the nutrient’s role within the body. Omega-3 is associated with decreased inflammation and omega-6 is associated with increased inflammation in the body. 

So why give horses both?

Fats are a highly concentrated source of energy. They provide approximately 2.25 times more energy than an equal weight of digested carbohydrates and can be added to a feed to increase the energy density of the diet. Some feedstuffs that are high in fat include vegetable oils, rice bran, and flax seeds. Omega 3 and 6 both naturally occur in fats and oils together, but due to omega-6’s association with inflammation, it is important to select a feedstuff or supplement with an optimal ratio of omega and 3 and 6. Note that omega-6 should not be viewed negatively as inflammatory processes are vital for healing responses.

Choosing a fatty acid source

Modern horse diets are generally high in omega-6, which are mostly derived from cereal grains and pulses, or corn, soy and rapeseed oils. However, horses’ diets are often relatively low in omega-3. Therefore, if the horse is already receiving a lot of hard feed, a good option is to add a small amount of oil to their daily portion of food.

Introducing a pure oil or oil-based feed to the diet whilst cutting back starchy cereals can be hugely beneficial, particularly if your horse suffers from/is prone to the following: poor coat or hoof condition, skin conditions such as Sweet-Itch, tying-up, laminitis, colic, or joint problems.

As with any nutrition change, oils should be introduced to your horse’s diet slowly over two weeks. It is also advised that you monitor your horse’s weight as oils are calorie-dense and if not fed in a balanced way they can lead to a gain in weight.