Most knowledge about bone development and horse nutrition has been gathered through numerous studies over the last 40 years. Topics like equine diseases, the best horse feed for weight gain, foal nutrition, and general feeding questions are current areas of interest. Conditions such as osteochondrosis, bone abnormalities, bone cysts, and the OCD issue can result from rapid growth or a lack of understanding regarding nutrient requirements, causing lasting damage.
Skeletal Development
Horses have two types of bones: flat bones and long bones. Flat bones, primarily found in the skull and pelvis, serve a protective role and are formed through a process called intramembranous ossification. Long bones, found in the limbs and thighs, are formed through endochondral ossification.
Endochondral ossification is the process by which growing cartilage is systematically replaced by bone. This process occurs in several stages:
- Growth of chondrocytes.
- Calcification and solidification of the hyaline cartilage matrix.
- Chondrocytes die, leaving cavities in the bone.
- Nutrients are delivered to the bone, blood vessels, and nerves.
Calphormin Meets the Increased Demand for Essential Nutrients
Endochondral ossification is the area where bone formation in horses has been scientifically proven to be influenced by specific dietary supplements. Calphormin, a product by TRM from Ireland, is supported by data and studies showing that sodium zeolite intake enhances bone calcification.
Mares should start receiving Calphormin supplementation from the third trimester, as this is when the foal’s bone formation takes place. The nutrients are incorporated into the mare's milk, improving the foal’s skeletal development. This enriched milk also helps prevent epiphysitis and osteochondrosis later in life.
Consult Experts
Ultimately, consult qualified experts. Your trusted veterinarian and feed advisor will provide the best guidance on horse feed recommendations.
For optimal skeletal development, we recommend Calphormin by TRM from Ireland.
