Effect of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids supplementation on development of equine and mule nursing foals

Abstract

Fatty acids are one of the most important energy reserves in animals, influencing health and development. However linolenic and linoleic acids are not produced by horse organism. This study was realized to evaluate equine and mule foals' development, nursed by mares supplemented with different sources of omega-3 (linseed oil) and -6 (soy oil) fatty acids. The animals were measured during sixty days and the rate of growth was compared between control, soy oil and linseed oil supplementation groups. Results demonstrated no statistical differences among the groups, but showed the necessity of more studies about the topic.