Every horse has its own story, its own spark, its own needs. 

Those needs often change with age, workload, seasons, and overall health, which is why many owners look for natural ways to support comfort and well-being. 

Fish oil has become one of those trusted options. Its omega-3 fatty acids help ease inflammation, support joint mobility, nourish the skin and coat, and strengthen the body’s natural defenses.

Even with its growing popularity, it’s not always easy to know how much to give or which supplements are safe and effective. Understanding the role omega-3s play in equine health can make those decisions feel far more manageable.

This guide explains the benefits of fish oil for horses, how to administer it properly, and what to look for in a high-quality supplement, ensuring every horse receives support that truly meets its needs.

What is Fish Oil for Horses?

Fish oil for horses is a natural source of omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA and DHA. These nutrients support joint comfort, mobility, skin and coat health, immune function, and overall well-being. 

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is best known for its strong anti-inflammatory properties. It helps calm irritation in joints, soft tissues, the skin, and even the digestive system. Additionally, EPA supports smoother, more comfortable movement in horses experiencing stiffness, arthritis, or general soreness.

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) supports cellular health throughout the body. It plays an important role in immune function, skin integrity, and nervous-system balance. Horses receiving DHA often show improvements in coat softness, skin resilience, and overall well-being.

Many horses don’t receive enough omega-3s through forage alone. This is because although green grass is rich in omega-3s, enough fresh pasture can be difficult to come by, especially consistently. Drought conditions, winter, and lack of land are all contributing factors. As a result, most horses’ diets are primarily composed of hay and grain. Adding a supplement can help restore balance and ease the physical stress horses experience through age, training, or seasonal changes.

Sources of Equine Fish Oil

Fish oil can come from several cold-water species known for their naturally high omega-3 levels. The most common and reliable sources include anchovies, sardines, and mackerel. 

These species thrive in colder waters, which naturally increases their EPA and DHA content, making them ideal candidates for producing fish oil for horses. 

Because omega-3s from marine sources are already in their active form, horses can absorb and use them efficiently without needing to convert them.

Smaller fish, such as anchovies and sardines, are often preferred for equine supplements because they sit lower on the food chain. This means they accumulate fewer environmental contaminants and heavy metals, resulting in a cleaner, safer oil. Smaller fish also reproduce quickly and are more sustainable to harvest, creating a reliable supply with minimal environmental impact.

Anchovy-based oils tend to have:

• Consistent EPA/DHA levels, which help ensure predictable results

• Lower contaminant risk due to their short life cycle

• A mild flavor profile that blends easily with feed

• Better sustainability compared to larger predatory fish

Choosing fish oil derived from small, cold-water species ensures horses receive a pure, concentrated form of omega-3 support.

Difference between Fish Oil vs Plant-based Omega-3 Sources

Not all omega-3s work the same way in a horse’s body. You may have heard about flaxseed, chia, and hemp as alternatives to fish oil, but the benefits vary based on the type of omega-3 each source provides.

Fish Oil for Horses Benefits

Fish oil for horses provides a gentle yet effective way to support comfort, mobility, and overall well-being. 

Anti-Inflammatory Properties for Joints, Arthritis, and Soft Tissue Recovery

Inflammation can make movement uncomfortable, especially for horses managing arthritis, lingering soreness from old injuries, or soft tissue strain from training. 

This discomfort often shows up as stiffness, shortened stride, difficulty warming up, or resistance under saddle.

Omega-3s in fish oil for horses help soften the body’s inflammatory response, giving joints and soft tissues the support they need to move more freely. EPA and DHA work at the cellular level to calm irritation around the joints, which can lead to smoother movement, easier warmups, and more comfortable cool-downs. 

For even greater results, pairing fish oil with a joint supplement like TRI-ACTA can make a noticeable difference.

TRI-ACTA’s 100% active ingredients—glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and hyaluronic acid—target both the symptoms and causes of mobility issues by reducing inflammation while rebuilding cartilage and supporting connective tissue.

TRI-ACTA H.A. for Equine

Our maximum strength formula is perfect for horses that are ageing, experiencing arthritis and stiffness, are in training and competition, or under a heavy workload.

Learn More

Skin and Coat Health Improvements

A horse’s coat often reflects their inner health, and omega-3s play a big role in nurturing that healthy glow. Fish oil strengthens the skin barrier by supporting natural oils that keep the skin soft, hydrated, and less reactive.

Horses dealing with seasonal itching, flakiness, dry patches, or dull coats often show noticeable improvement after omega-3s are added to their diet. 

Over time, many develop a softer coat, healthier dapples, and a more resilient skin barrier that copes better with weather changes, sweat, and grooming routines.

Digestive Health and Immune System Support

A balanced immune system and comfortable digestive tract help horses handle stress, training, travel, and environmental changes without becoming run down. 

Omega-3s in fish oil for horses support this balance by helping reduce inflammation throughout the gut and digestive lining.

When the gut is calmer and less irritated, absorption improves, manure stays more consistent, and horses are better able to maintain weight and energy. 

These benefits indirectly strengthen the immune system, giving horses the resilience they need to stay healthy through seasonal transitions, training schedules, and shifts in routine.

Potential Role in Calming Behavior and Focus

Some horses seem more settled and attentive once omega-3s become part of their diet. While fish oil isn’t a behavioral or calming supplement, supporting physical comfort often has an emotional ripple effect. 

Horses that feel good in their bodies tend to move more freely, react less to discomfort, and stay more focused on their work.

Improved joint comfort, reduced stiffness, and steadier digestion can all contribute to a horse feeling relaxed and confident. This often shows up as better concentration in training, calmer behavior during grooming or tacking up, and a more positive overall attitude.

Performance Horse Benefits

Performance horses rely on consistent, targeted nutritional support. Fish oil for horses offers several advantages that help them stay comfortable and ready for work.

• Stamina: Omega-3s support efficient metabolism and oxygen delivery, helping horses maintain steadier energy during longer schooling sessions or show days.

• Recovery: Inflammation is a natural part of training. Omega-3s help keep that inflammation balanced, supporting smoother recovery after intense work.

• Reduced muscle soreness: Horses may experience less post-work muscle tightness when their diet includes omega-3s, especially compared to grain-heavy feeding programs.

Fish Oil for Horses Dosage and Administration

Choosing the right amount of fish oil for horses depends on their weight, workload, age, and the concentration of EPA and DHA in the product. 

Since potency varies, always check the manufacturer’s label for guidance.

General Dosage Guidelines

Fish oil for horses can be used in different ways depending on the goal. Maintenance amounts help support everyday wellness, while therapeutic levels offer more focused care for horses dealing with arthritis, inflammation, or recovery needs. 

This table gives an easy-to-follow comparison to help you understand the difference at a glance.

Maintenance vs Therapeutic Dosage

Age and workload play an important role in how horses respond to omega-3 support. Senior horses often need steady, gentle supplementation to stay comfortable, while performance horses benefit from higher levels that help with recovery, mobility, and overall endurance. 

The comparison below helps clarify how needs differ between the two groups.

Senior Horses vs Performance Horses

How to Introduce Fish Oil Gradually to Avoid Digestive Upset

Most horses adjust well to fish oil for horses, but giving their digestive system time to adapt makes the transition smoother and more comfortable. Adding any new fat source too quickly can lead to loose manure, mild discomfort, or simple feed refusal, so a slow introduction is the kindest approach.

Begin with a very small amount, often just a quarter of the full serving, and increase gradually over 5 to 7 days. This steady progression helps the gut adjust to the added fat without overwhelming it.

A gradual introduction also gives horses time to become familiar with the scent and texture of the oil. Whether you're using a liquid, powder, or another omega-3 format, easing it in helps even picky eaters feel comfortable.

Example Dose Transition Schedule for Fish Oil for Horses

Of course, it’s always best practice to follow the directions on the fish oil for horses product that you’ve purchased, as it will have transitional dosage instructions tailored for that product. The above is just a generalized example based on most offerings on the market. 

Considerations for Competition Horses

For competitive riders, choosing supplements comes with extra responsibility. Every product added to a horse’s diet must support their well-being while also aligning with the rules of sanctioned events. 

High-quality fish oil for horses is generally allowed in competition, but regulations evolve, and it’s always smart to check the FEI Prohibited Substances List before show season or when introducing something new.

If you’re looking for lasting joint support for your horse, you  can feel confident choosing Integricare because our TRI-ACTA horse health supplements are FEI-approved, meaning they meet strict standards for purity and safety. This approval offers reassurance in several ways:

• Clear ingredient transparency with no hidden fillers or prohibited additives

• Reliable manufacturing standards that support product consistency

• Strict quality testing to ensure every batch is clean and compliant

• Peace of mind for riders who want to support their horse’s comfort without risking eligibility

TRI-ACTA H.A. for Equine

Our maximum strength formula is perfect for horses that are ageing, experiencing arthritis and stiffness, are in training and competition, or under a heavy workload.

Learn More

Fish Oil Supplement Formats for Horses

Fish oil for horses comes in several forms, each with its own benefits. Choosing the right format often depends on feeding style, barn environment, and the horse’s preferences.

Fish Oil Liquid for Horses

Liquid fish oil remains the most common choice because it blends easily with grain or mash and allows precise dosing.

Pros

• Easy to mix

• Well absorbed

• Simple to adjust for weight or training intensity

Cons

• Some horses need time to accept the taste
  Requires careful storage to maintain freshness

Keep liquid fish oil in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Tightly close the bottle after every use to prevent oxidation. Refrigeration can extend freshness, especially in warm climates.

Fish Oil Powder for Horses

Powdered versions of fish oil for horses are appreciated for their convenience and mild flavor.

Powders blend smoothly with pelleted feed and are helpful in busy barns where multiple horses are supplemented. Since they are less likely to spill or leak, they’re also practical for travel.

Most horses accept powder quickly because the scent is less pronounced than liquid fish oil. This makes it a good option for picky eaters.

Pros

• Blends easily with pelleted feeds

• Mild scent that appeals to picky eaters

• Low-mess option for busy barns or travel

• Longer shelf stability compared to some liquids

• Easy to measure and portion

Cons

• May have lower EPA/DHA concentration than high-quality liquids

• Slightly slower absorption compared to liquid formats

• Not all powders are made from true fish oil (some are plant-based or partially fortified, so labels need to be checked)

• Fewer premium options on the market compared to liquid

Fish Oil Capsules for Horses

Capsules aren’t used as frequently, but they fill specific needs.

Niche use cases include:

1. Horses that refuse liquids or powders

2. Miniature horses or ponies needing very precise amounts

3. Owners who want pre-measured servings

Capsules tend to be the most expensive format due to encapsulation and packaging. They can also be time-consuming to feed if a horse requires multiple capsules per serving.

Pros

• Pre-measured servings for precise dosing

• Ideal for miniature horses, ponies, or horses with very sensitive digestion

• Useful for horses that refuse liquids or powders

• Reduced risk of spills, mess, or oxidation

• Easy to transport and store

Cons

• Typically the most expensive format

• Can require feeding many capsules per day for full doses

• Time-consuming to give to full-sized horses

• Some horses may refuse capsules or require them to be hidden in treats

• Fewer product options available compared to liquid fish oil for horses

Fish Oil Supplements for Horses vs Fish Oil Products for Horses

When choosing fish oil for horses, you might encounter two types of formulations: whole fish oil and concentrated fish oil supplements.

Whole vs Concentrated Fish Oil

Whole fish oil provides naturally occurring levels of EPA and DHA. It’s ideal for general wellness support, softer coats, and mild joint comfort. Whole oils are often the best match for horses needing steady, gentle supplementation.

On the other hand, concentrated fish oil supplements contain higher levels of EPA and DHA in smaller servings. They offer more targeted support for inflammation, arthritis, and recovery after intense work. Concentrated blends can also be helpful for senior horses or performance horses that need stronger omega-3 benefits.

Both whole and concentrated options have a place in equine care. The best choice depends on your horse’s age, workload, and overall health goals. 

Choosing the Best Fish Oil for Horses

Choosing the right fish oil for horses comes down to quality, purity, and responsible sourcing. The goal is to support your horse’s comfort and mobility with an omega-3 supplement that’s clean, consistent, and safe for long-term use.

Purity and Absence of Fillers

The best fish oil for horses contains only what your horse needs: omega-3 fatty acids in their natural, usable form. Avoid products that include fillers, artificial flavors, or unnecessary additives that dilute the supplement’s effectiveness.

This is one of the reasons TRI-ACTA is trusted by so many owners. Its formulas contain 100% active ingredients, with no fillers, no sugars, and no stabilizers. When fish oil is used alongside a supplement with this level of purity, horses receive a clean, direct source of joint and mobility support that complements their daily omega-3 intake.

High EPA/DHA Concentration

EPA and DHA are the omega-3s responsible for easing inflammation, supporting joint comfort, and nurturing skin and coat health. 

When comparing options, look for fish oil products that clearly list their EPA/DHA concentrations. Higher concentrations offer more support in smaller serving sizes, especially important for performance horses or those recovering from injury.

Sustainability and Sourcing

Responsible sourcing matters, not only for the environment but also for the quality of the oil your horse consumes. The best fish oil products come from cold-water species like anchovy, sardine, or mackerel, which are fish that naturally carry high omega-3 levels with fewer environmental concerns.

Avoid shark-derived oils or products sourced from species tied to poor sustainability practices. Smaller fish are generally cleaner, safer, and significantly more sustainable choices.

Certifications

A trustworthy supplement is backed by transparent, verifiable quality standards. When choosing fish oil for horses, look for:

1. Health Canada VHP (Veterinary Health Product) Notification: Ensures the product meets safety, labeling, and quality guidelines for animal health.

2. GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices): Indicates the fish oil was produced in a facility that meets strict standards for purity, quality control, and consistency.

3. Independent Testing: Third-party testing verifies potency, purity, and the absence of contaminants like heavy metals, giving owners confidence in what they’re feeding.

Comparing Fish Oil to Other Joint and Mobility Supplements

Horses with mobility concerns often benefit from a combination of nutritional support. 

Understanding how fish oil compares to other options helps owners build a well-rounded plan that matches their horse’s needs.

Fish Oil vs Flax/Chia/Camelina

Plant-based sources like flax, chia, and camelina provide ALA, a form of omega-3 that horses must convert into EPA and DHA. Because the conversion rate is low, these sources generally offer lighter support for joint comfort and inflammation.

Fish oil, on the other hand, already contains EPA and DHA in their active forms. This helps horses experience more noticeable improvements in mobility, coat quality, and overall comfort.

Flax and chia are still valuable, especially for coat shine and general maintenance, but they don’t replace the stronger anti-inflammatory benefits that fish oil delivers.

Fish Oil vs Joint Supplements

Joint supplements support mobility in different ways. Ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin, hyaluronic acid, and MSM help rebuild cartilage, support joint fluid, and protect the tissues that keep horses moving comfortably.

Fish oil doesn’t rebuild joint structures, but it reduces inflammation, which helps the body respond better to training, aging, and everyday movement.

This makes the two categories complementary rather than interchangeable.

Combining fish oil for horses with a high-quality joint supplement creates a more complete approach to mobility care. Fish oil helps calm inflammation throughout the body, while a joint supplement like TRI-ACTA, with its 100% active ingredients, supports cartilage resilience, joint fluid quality, and long-term mobility.

Together, they offer:

1. Stronger comfort for stiff or aging horses

2. Support for soft tissue recovery

3. Improved movement quality

4. Help balancing inflammation without relying solely on NSAIDs

Supporting Your Horse’s Health from the Inside Out

Fish oil for horses offers a simple, meaningful way to support comfort, mobility, skin health, and overall well-being. 

Whether your horse is a seasoned partner, a senior needing extra care, or a performance horse working hard every day, the right omega-3 support can make a noticeable difference in how they move, recover, and feel.

Pairing fish oil with a high-quality joint supplement creates an even stronger foundation. TRI-ACTA and TRI-ACTA H.A. deliver 100% active ingredients that work alongside omega-3s to support long-term joint health, cartilage strength, and daily comfort.

If you’re ready to give your horse the most complete support possible, find a retailer near you to pick up the product that fits your horse’s needs and routine.

TRI-ACTA for Equine

Providing preventative support for younger horses and helping mitigate the early onset of joint degeneration and other mobility issues.

Learn More