Influence of Mineral and Fatty Acid Diet Supplementation on the Energy Balance in Mares in Pregnancy and Lactation Periods

The objective of the studies was to evaluate the influence of a natural preparation supplemented with unsaturated and saturated fatty acids on the clinical features and some biochemical indices in the mares in the last trimester of pregnancy and the first lactation months. The preparation efficacy was assessed in the prophylaxis of energy balance disturbances, with a special concern given to hyperlipaemia in horses. The preparation decreased the concentration of triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol, and cholesterol high density and low-density lipoprotein fractions. No significant changes were recorded in the levels of free fatty acids (FFA) and glucose. In the group of mares without the dietary addition, the TG and FFA levels exceeded the upper limits in some animals. The preparation had a beneficial effect on the energy balance in mares at the enhanced energy metabolism period.