NuVena - Chela Selen + E 250g

Selenium for Horses – Vital Support for Muscles, Immunity, and Fertility

Selenium deficiency is one of the most common trace element deficiencies in horses, especially in regions like northern Poland. Despite its small required quantity, selenium plays a critical role in maintaining health and performance.

This trace element is incorporated into selenoproteins, which are essential for antioxidant defense and immune system function. Selenium also supports the proper function of the thyroid gland and muscles, helping protect against myopathies. Furthermore, it plays a key role in the fertility of both stallions and mares.

Why Selenium Matters

Selenium is most effective when combined with vitamin E—a synergy supported by numerous scientific studies. Selenium’s activity is also closely linked with sulfur-containing amino acids, copper, and protein levels in the diet.

Because all nutrients interact with one another, it’s not just about the right amount of selenium—what matters is maintaining balanced proportions in the overall feed. This is known as proper diet balancing.

When to Supplement Selenium

• when selenium deficiency is detected in blood, hair, or hoof tests

• as part of balancing a complete and nutritious feed ration

• in horses with fertility issues

• in horses that struggle to build muscle mass

• during intensive training

• in cases of reduced immunity or diagnosed lymphopenia

Selenium’s Role in the Body

• regulates red blood cell production and protects them from oxidative stress

• boosts fertility – essential for the reproductive cycle in mares and semen quality in stallions

• a key component of glutathione peroxidase, an enzyme that protects cells from oxidative damage

• supports thyroid hormone metabolism

• strengthens immune function by promoting white blood cell production, especially T-lymphocytes, which destroy virus-infected or damaged cells

Symptoms of Selenium Deficiency

• anemia and poor red blood cell counts

• reduced peroxidase activity, leading to a build-up of reactive oxygen species

• fatigue, weakness, lethargy

• muscle pain, stiffness, or signs of myositis

• weakened immunity

• low fertility, difficulty maintaining pregnancy

• in foals: poor weight gain, delayed development, and nutritional muscular dystrophy (white muscle disease)