Is your horse ready for show day?

Adding canola oil to a horse's diet leading up to a race or show can provide several benefits, primarily by increasing the energy density of the diet without adding bulk. Here’s how and when to incorporate it:

Benefits of Adding Canola Oil

1. Energy Source: Canola oil is a rich source of calories, providing about 2.25 times the energy of an equivalent weight of carbohydrates or protein. This can be particularly beneficial for racehorses that require high energy to sustain their performance.

2. Improved Endurance: The fat in canola oil is metabolized slowly, providing a sustained energy release during prolonged activities, which is advantageous during races or shows.

3. Weight Maintenance and Muscle Condition: Canola oil helps maintain optimal body condition and muscle tone, particularly in horses that may struggle to keep weight on during intensive training.

4. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Canola oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties, potentially aiding in the recovery process and reducing muscle stiffness.

5. Shiny Coat: The addition of fat to a horse’s diet often results in a shinier, healthier coat, which is particularly beneficial for show horses.

How and When to Add Canola Oil

1. Introduction Period:

   • Start Slowly: Introduce canola oil gradually to the diet to allow the horse’s digestive system to adjust. Begin with a small amount, such as ¼ cup (about 60 ml) per day.
   • Increase Gradually: Over 1-2 weeks, gradually increase the amount of canola oil to the desired level, typically between ½ cup to 1 cup (120-240 ml) per day for an average-sized horse (450-500 kg).

2. Timing:

   • Daily Feeding: Mix canola oil with the horse's grain or concentrate feed, dividing it between meals. This ensures consistent energy levels throughout the day.
   • Leading Up to the Race/Show: Begin adding canola oil to the diet at least 3-4 weeks before the competition. This allows the horse to adapt to the higher fat content and begin reaping the benefits.

3. Day of the Race/Show:

   • Small Pre-Race Meal: On the day of the event, you can still include canola oil in a small pre-race meal to provide an extra energy boost, but keep it minimal to avoid any digestive upset.

4. Post-Race/Show:

   • Recovery: Continue feeding canola oil after the race or show to support recovery by providing ongoing energy and aiding in muscle repair.

Monitoring and Adjustment

• Monitor Condition: Keep an eye on the horse's body condition, coat quality, and overall energy levels. Adjust the amount of canola oil if necessary, based on the horse’s workload, metabolism, and performance.
• Consult a Veterinarian/Nutritionist: Regular consultation with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist ensures that the oil supplementation is appropriate and beneficial for your horse's specific needs.

Adding canola oil to a racehorse or show horse's diet can be a simple yet effective way to enhance energy levels, improve endurance, and support overall health and performance.