Linseed, also known as flaxseed, is a small, thick, dark brown seed from the flax plant. Horses are often given raw or processed flaxseed through mashes and concentrates. In concentrated feed, both linseed and linseed flakes, which remain from the seed after oil is extracted, can be added. Linseed flakes as well as linseed oil share the same benefits as whole linseed. Thus, linseed oil for horses can be found in many pet stores and can be poured over horse feed, providing the same benefits as untouched flaxseed.

Benefits of Linseed for Horses

Flaxseed can benefit many horses. Nonetheless, due to its high protein content and rich source of fatty acids, it can be especially valuable for foals and horses in training. Fatty acids play an important role in the development of a strong kidney and skeletal system. However, lysine is an amino acid that humans and animals cannot produce on their own, so it must be obtained through the diet. Plus, flaxseed also helps with shedding, ensuring a shiny coat, and improves digestion.

A little vegetable oil has the same effect on horses’ fur and digestion as flaxseed. Read more about: vegetable oil

Linseed is the richest source of omega-3 fatty acids for horses of the plant nutrients. Horses benefit from a supplement of omega-3 fatty acids to achieve a better balance between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. When these fatty acids are present in a proper ratio, it can have a positive effect on the skin and feather system. The proper ratio is 2: 1 (omega-3: omega-6). Be sure not to give too much flaxseed to the horse, or there will be a deficiency of omega-6.

Cooking linseed

Besides these positive properties, there is also a disadvantage of flaxseed. The seeds contain the substance linamarin, which is converted into the toxic compound hydrocyanic acid during digestion. Hydrocyanic acid is toxic because it interferes with the transport of oxygen through the blood. Therefore, for horses, fennicle seeds must always be boiled before flaxseed can be fed to horses.

Boiling linseed converts its linamine to prussic acid, but the prussic acid immediately evaporates into the air and therefore does not decay in the linseed. Flaxseed should be boiled for about 10 minutes. You can also pour boiling water on the flaxseed and cool it to room temperature. While boiling flaxseed, the structure also disappears and develops a slimy mass that can be constipated for horses. The mucus prevents constipation because it makes a kind of layer on the intestinal wall.

Hartog does not process linseed in its roughage but Molashine. This is a mixture of molasses and vegetable oil. Molashine is processed Hartog Lucerne mix and Grass mix.

Below is an overview of Hartog’s concentrate products in which linseed is processed.