Omega-3 fatty acids aid in the treatment of skin problems, heart disease, high blood pressure, ulcers, and other disorders, and it could play a role in improving the immune system. If omega-3 fatty acids benefit human health, can they provide similar benefits for horses? Although there have been only a handful of omega-3 studies for the horse, here’s what we do know, and what researchers are hoping to find out.

Because of promising results in other species concerning inflammation and immune function, researchers are looking for similar effects of omega-3 fatty acids in the equine. Despite the hype and tantalizing promises of varied products, there are still many facts yet to be gathered concerning the role of omega-3 fatty acids in the equine diet.