Vegetable or plant oils are usually given to performance horses for one of two reasons: to increase the energy density of the diet and (or) to try to improve coat condition.

Because corn oil is chock full of calories, owners can increase energy intake easily by drizzling up to two cups per day over two or more grain meals. Oil is also used frequently to decrease the amount of feed needed to fuel exercise. As corn oil consumption increases, feed intake may decrease. Thus, corn oil is a safe, effective alternative to high-grain diets.

Much anecdotal evidence exists regarding the use of vegetable oil to add shine and luster to the horse’s coat. Some horsemen swear by its use.

Vegetable oil is not the only way to feed fat to horses, but it surely is the messiest. If dumping oil becomes too much of a hassle, horse owners should investigate other alternatives such as a high-fat rice bran supplement available in meal or pelleted form.