By: Jodie, Kayla R & Ashley

Minerals

What defines a mineral?

A mineral is any natural occurring inorganic substance often characterized by a crystal structure.

Inorganic: not containing any organic substances.

Crystal structure: The frame work of a crystal.

What are the important minerals in a horses diet?

• Macro minerals is what your horse needs in large amounts as compared to micro minerals

• Macro minerals include:CalciumChlorineMagnesium

Potassium Sodium

Sulfur

Continued!

• Micro minerals is what your horses need in smaller amounts than Macro minerals.

• Micro minerals include:CopperCobaltIronIodineManganeseSeleniumZinc

What are the requirements of the minerals?

Minerals help the horse mature, maintain energy and it helps prevent injuries.

• Magnesium- Is important in skeletal development muscles and nervous tissue.

• Sodium- It has a similar function as potassium but is more important for horses that work and sweat a lot.

Continued!

• Manganese- It is important in cartilage and bone development.

• Selenium- It is important for reproduction, growth and immune system.

How are these requirements met?

These requirements are met by supplements and their food.Such as:

• Alfalfa- Calcium • Timothy Hay- Phosphorus, Calcium• Grass Hay- Calcium

Continued!

• Molasses- Magnesium, Manganese, Potassium• Salt Block- Iodine, Sodium• Smart calm- Magnesium• Smart flex- Sulfate• Sweet feed- Calcium, Phosphorus, Copper,

Zinc, Selenium

What is the difference between micro and macro minerals, examples of each.

• The difference between Macro and Micro minerals is that Macro you need more of them and Micro you need of them.

• http://www.minerals.net/resource/what_is_.htm

• http://www.understanding-horse-nutrition.com/minerals.html

• http://www.pet-health-advisor.com/horsenutritionminerals.html