Lysine for horses

Lysine for horses is a topic of great significance, especially when considering the potential benefits it can offer to these magnificent creatures.

In this blog post, we will delve into the fascinating world of lysine and how it can positively impact the health and well-being of horses. Whether you are a horse owner, equestrian enthusiast, or simply curious about equine nutrition, join us as we explore the remarkable benefits of lysine for horses.

What is Lysine for Horses?

Lysine is generally thought to be the most limiting amino acid in the horse’s diet.

Lysine is a precursor for the important amino acid citrulline and is crucial for normal protein metabolism in horses.  Research has shown that without adequate levels of lysine, horses will have impaired growth and metabolism.

Lysine is essential for proper protein metabolism and growth. As the most limiting amino acid in their diet, lysine plays a crucial role in the synthesis of citrulline. Without sufficient lysine levels, horses may experience impaired growth and metabolism.

This important limiting amino acid can be found in high amounts in forages and soya.  All cereals tend to be low in this amino acid.

Foals, young horses (particularly those under three years of age), pregnant mares, and lactating mares all have a large requirement for lysine but depending on the health of the soil upon which forage is grown the lysine levels in the forage may not be enough to cover levels. It is wise to always supplement lysine to provide good insurance to all classes of horses.

Lysine can limit the body’s ability to synthesize protein if it is not present in sufficient quantities. Diets that contain at least 4.3% of their crude protein as lysine support the same weight gains/growth as lower levels of total crude protein because of more efficient utilization of the other amino acids in the body.

The benefits of Lysine for Horses

  • Improved growth and development
  • Enhanced muscle mass
  • Strengthened immune system
  • Increased energy levels
  • Improved wound healing
  • Enhanced collagen production
  • Support for respiratory health
  • Reduction of stress and anxiety
  • Support for reproductive function
  • Maintenance of healthy skin and coat

How can I tell my horse is deficient in Lysine?

Determining if your horse is deficient in lysine can be done through a few methods.

One common sign of lysine deficiency in horses is a loss of muscle bulk, often most visible on the top line, despite adequate body condition or fat coverage. If you notice this in your horse, it could be an indication of lysine deficiency. However, other factors can cause this too.

Another way to determine if your horse might be deficient in lysine is by evaluating their diet. Lysine is often deficient in equine diets that are primarily forage-based and provide less than 8% protein with average calorie content. If your horse’s diet is primarily hay, especially of moderate quality, and little supplemented grain, there could be a risk of lysine deficiency.

Remember, lysine is an essential amino acid, meaning it must be obtained from the diet as the horse’s body cannot produce it. Therefore, ensuring your horse’s diet is balanced and contains all the necessary nutrients is crucial for their overall health.

How much lysine does a horse need?

The lysine requirement for an adult horse is 0.043% of the protein requirement. A 500 kg horse at maintenance has a total protein requirement of 630 grams/day and lysine of 27.1 grams. If the horse is eating only 9% protein hay, 10 kg/day (22 lbs), he will get 900 grams of protein overall and about 31.5 grams of lysine.

Supplementing with 10 to 20 grams/day of lysine and 5 to 10 grams of methionine for the average-sized adult horse will show results in a few weeks if this is part of the problem. When horses are in work and receiving adequate total protein, inefficient muscle metabolism can be the problem. This is particularly likely in young horses in training and any horse showing difficulty in bulking up and achieving training milestones involving speed, endurance, or advanced movements.

Last Updated on October 31, 2023 by Forageplus Team

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