Keeping and feeding
Horn growth and quality are a result of the entire keeping of the horse. Also feeding represents an important part. Feeding should ensure the supply of the necessary raw material for the production of healthy horn, such as vitamins, minerals, and protein.
An intact intestinal flora produce vitamins, including vitamin H =biotin, and protein. It should nourished by sufficient raw fibers. Intestinal parasites should be kept as low as possible by regular vermifuge in correct dosage (follow the ingredient note). Here the pasture care should be given special attention(regular motion). Deworming does not replace hygiene! In addition, sufficient mobility for regulated digestion should be given.
Much fodder and too little roughage are detrimental to the horn strength and increase the risk of laminitis. Too much selenium can possibly lead to horn damage. Keratin -/ or vitamin A deficiency can lead to loose and brittle horn, zinc deficiency to soft Horn.
A balanced feeding that should be checked from time to time, offers everything that is necessary for the production of hoof horn. All other keeping factors should contribute complementary to allow the horse a healthy existence, physically as well as mentally.
An ideal form of keeping horses is the one that is appropriate for the horse is functional, labor-saving and affordable. Here,in my opinion,the horse justice should be as far as possible about everything else. Enough exercise, fresh air, light and temperature fluctuations, variety, social contacts with other conspecifics, adequate feeding, dry resting areas and different soil conditions are necessary for a horse welfare. If you can offer these things to your horses, they live happily, balanced and as healthy as possible. Here, the best alternative is an open stable with different soil conditions, with rotation and various feeding stations.