Reading Product Labels

When considering nutritional supplements, talk to your veterinarian about which supplements will most benefit your horse. Your veterinarian also can help you avoid supplements which may not meet important quality standards. Depending on your horse’s condition, medical history, and other factors, your veterinarian may recommend dietary or exercise changes for your horse instead of supplements or a combination of supplements and medications.

Your veterinarian will know which supplement brands and manufacturers are reliable. When purchasing supplements, look for companies that support clinical research, list ingredients clearly on their products, explain how to administer the supplements, and don’t make unrealistic claims about what the supplements will do.

Common equine supplements include:

Glucosamine: supports cartilage production, improves joint comfort, and inhibits inflammatory mediators
Chondroitin sulfate: supports production and slows breakdown of cartilage, improves joint comfort, and inhibits inflammatory mediators
ASU (avocado/soybean unsaponifiables): supports production and slows breakdown of cartilage and inhibits inflammatory mediators
HA (hyaluronic acid): lessens joint swelling
Omega-3 fatty acids: inhibits inflammatory mediators and slows the breakdown of cartilage
MSM (methylsulfonylmethane)
Cetyl myristoleate
Yucca and devil’s claw

Support the College of Veterinary Medicine

Veterinary Medical Center

Reading Product Labels