Scientific name:

Cis-hexahydro-2-oxo-1H-thieno-imidazole-4-valeric acid (Vitamin H or B8)

Type:

Water-soluble vitamin

Effects of Biotin in Horses:

• Improving hoof and coat quality

Action of biotin

Biotin is formed by synthesis of gut bacteria, and it is also absorbed from food. Biotin can be absorbed by almost all cells and converted to carboxy biotin (a component of a wide group of enzymes). These enzymes play a role in fat and enzyme metabolism, as well as in gluconeogenesis. But biotin also plays a role in cell proliferation (growth) and affects the synthesis of adhesives in the cells.

Biotin and hooves

Because horses can produce biotin themselves and obtain it through diet, it is not always necessary to supplement biotin. There is also no scientific consensus on how much biotin a horse should be supplemented with, beyond the formation of biotin in the intestines. However, for horses with poor hoof quality, it may be beneficial to supplement with extra biotin.

Biotin can improve hoof growth and quality, but studies have shown that there is only a minimal difference in horses that did not receive extra biotin. The biotin should also be in a pure form, as otherwise, the horse may not absorb it well. Studies have also shown that extra biotin should be given for a minimum of 6-9 months in a dosage of at least 30 grams (for a 500kg horse) to notice a difference.

Unfortunately, many horses show no difference when given biotin for an extended period. These horses may possibly need a different nutrient; for example, studies have shown that silicon has a better effect on hoof growth and quality than biotin.