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Cobalt

Trace minerals stored as mg/kg 2 shared products have a value

What it does

Hindgut microbes use cobalt to make vitamin B12, so cobalt is essential only when there is no other source of B12 [1].

Excess

Racing jurisdictions set plasma cobalt thresholds. One study found no performance-enhancing effect from intravenous cobalt, and improper cobalt intake may raise the risk of laminitis and soft tissue damage, although more research is needed [1].

See also vitamin b12.

Sources

  1. 1. Liburt NR (peer reviewed by Boyle AG). Nutritional Requirements of Horses and Other Equids. MSD Veterinary Manual, Professional Version. Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ. Last full review February 2026. https://www.msdvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition/nutrition-horses/nutritional-requirements-of-horses (accessed 2026-11-07)

Last edited 7 Nov 2026, 1:48 am