Why do horses who consume seafoods suffer from thiamine deficiency.
Horses typically do not consume seafood as a part of their natural diet, which consists mainly of grass, hay, and grains. Thiamine, also known as vitamin B1, is an essential nutrient for horses as it plays a crucial role in energy metabolism and nerve function. Seafoods, on the other hand, are rich in an enzyme called thiaminase, which breaks down thiamine.
When horses consume seafoods that contain thiaminase, this enzyme destroys the thiamine in their body before it can be utilized. As a result, horses suffer from thiamine deficiency. Symptoms of thiamine deficiency in horses include weight loss, poor appetite, gastrointestinal issues, tiredness, neurologic problems, and even death if left untreated.
It is important to note that horses have no need for seafood consumption, and their diets should focus on sources of nutrition that are appropriate for their digestive system and natural feeding habits.