Role of iron in the equine body

Iron is a component of red blood cells and ensures oxygen uptake and transport in the blood. Iron is also present in muscle tissue to maintain oxygen levels in the muscles and is involved in a number of enzyme systems.

Iron deficiency

Iron deficiency can cause anaemia and reduced performance in high-level sport horses.

Iron excess and interactions

An excess of iron is harmful to the equine body, as iron overload can lead to the development of free radicals. Iron levels are often relatively high in forage and can also be elevated in drinking water. However, not all iron is absorbed by the horse, which is why the effects of an iron surplus do not occur very often.

Young horses are very sensitive to an iron surplus. An overdose of iron can lead to reduced absorption of copper, manganese and zinc.

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