What is the biotin level in horse feeds?
A. Biotin is one of the B vitamins. Biotin has many roles in animal metabolism but is probably best known for the effects it may have in improving hoof condition in some problem horses. Natural feed ingredients contain 0.1 to 0.2 mg of biotin per pound of feed. Biotin is also synthesized and absorbed from the cecum and large intestine of the horse so that the total amount from feed plus absorption from the intestine is more than adequate to meet the needs of most horses. Horses that have been off feed or sick, especially with diarrhea and other gastrointestinal conditions, may benefit from Biotin supplementation. Also, research has shown that feeding very high and expensive levels of Biotin (total intakes of 15 mg to 30 mg per day) for a year or more will improve hoof condition in some horses. Supplements can be purchased that are designed to furnish high levels of Biotin as well as certain other nutrients believed to be involved in hoof growth. Most horses will not need additional Bio
