Minerals Minerals are necessary for most of the chemical reactions occurring in the body and also for the development and maintenance of the skeleton.
Trace minerals are no less important but are needed in smaller amounts.
Calcium and phosphorus are needed in adequate amounts in the ration but are also needed in the correct ratio. Table 3 lists the needed levels of calcium and phosphorus for various classes of horses. Too much of either one interferes with the use of the other. Neither adults nor foals can tolerate phosphorus levels that exceed calcium levels in the diet. It is the only mineral compound a horse will actively seek out to eat and should be fed free choice to horses at all times.