Most of the knowledge about bone development and horse nutrition has only been gained through numerous studies over the last 40 years. Horse diseases, the best horse feed for weight gain, foal nutrition and general feeding questions are current topics that concern us. Diseases such as osteochondrosis, bone abnormalities, bone cysts and the OCD problem can arise from rapid growth or a lack of knowledge about nutritional requirements and leave behind permanent damage.
The development of the skeleton
There are two types of bone in horses. Flat bone, which is found mainly in the skull and pelvis, and long bone, which is found in the limbs and thighs. Flat bone is a protective type of bone and is formed by a process called intramembranous ossification. Long bone is formed by endochondral ossification.
Endochondral ossification is the process by which growing cartilage is systematically replaced by bone. This process occurs in large steps. First, the chondrocytes grow, then the hyaline cartilage matrix calcifies and solidifies. Chondrocytes die and cavities form in the bone. Finally, nutrients are delivered to the bones, blood vessels and nerves.
Calphormin takes into account the increased need for essential nutrients
Endochondral ossification is the area in which bone formation in horses has been proven to be influenced by certain nutritional supplements. Calphormin , a product from TRM in Ireland, has data and study results showing that the intake of sodium zeolite helps improve bone calcification.
Mares should be fed Calphormin from the third trimester onwards, as this is when the foal’s bone formation takes place. Nutrients are added to the mare’s milk and
improve the foal's skeletal development. Furthermore, this mare's milk helps in the prevention of epiphysitis and osteochondrosis in later life.
Ultimately, you should consult qualified experts. Your trusted veterinarian and your feed consultant will provide you with the best possible support when it comes to horse feed advice.
For optimal skeletal development we recommend the Calphormin from TRM from Ireland.
