With a huge range of supplements claiming to enhance stallion fertility, choosing the right one to help your stallion might seem like a bit of a minefield. However, a look through the scientific research currently available can help to guide your decision.  

Many supplements marketed for stallions are based on those designed for humans, but their efficacy in a different species is uncertain. For example, while some minerals and antioxidants like selenium and zinc are commonly included in stallion supplements, studies have shown mixed results regarding their impact on fertility. Adding additional selenium to the diet without considering the overall balance of the diet can pose dangerous negative effects. Selenium deficiency has not been shown to affect stallion fertility, but perhaps more importantly, selenium toxicity (even a minor “overdose”) has been shown to cause a range of very unpleasant side effects in equines, including a reduction in fertility in stallions.

One amino acid, L-carnitine, has shown some evidence of improving semen quality characterises in stallions with poor fertility. However, the research suggests that it does not appear to improve semen quality those with acceptable or good fertility.

Interestingly, omega-3 fatty acids, specifically docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), have been shown to have positive effects on stallion fertility in various studies. These effects include increased sperm output, improved sperm morphology and motility, including better sperm freezability. DHA may enhance sperm membrane fluidity, making sperm more tolerant to cooling and freezing.

As it takes 57 days to make each sperm cell it is vital to provide a source of DHA, approximately two months prior breeding to demonstrate its effectiveness. Bluegrass Mare Prepare is the only stud cube currently on the market that contains a direct source of DHA & EPA, as provided by the inclusion of marine derived oil high in omega-3 fatty acids. Mare Prepare will not only provide stallions with DHA & EPA but it is also fully balanced ensuring all nutrition requirements of the stallion are met which will positively impact fertility and overall health.

Get in contact with the Bluegrass Team on how you can best support your stallion’s fertility this season.