OKAPI Spirulina is often compared to Chlorella due to their similar properties, although they are fundamentally different. Chlorella is a freshwater algae, while Spirulina is a cyanobacterium, also found in freshwater. Spirulina has long been a valued feed ingredient due to its exceptionally high protein content and excellent amino acid profile for horses. This is why it is included in many supplements for sport horses, which have an increased need for valuable amino acids to support muscle development. However, other horses with higher protein needs, such as youngstock, broodmares, or seniors, often benefit from supplementation over six to eight weeks, especially in spring and autumn.
Additionally, Spirulina contains a particularly high amount of chlorophyll, the green plant pigment that horses typically consume in large quantities through fresh, lush pasture grass. However, not all horses have access to pasture—whether due to health reasons or insufficient grazing land or growth. In such cases, Spirulina can be offered as a supplement, as chlorophyll is currently believed to have a positive effect on the horse’s natural detoxification process. Therefore, horses also benefit from Spirulina, particularly during times of coat change, when it is mixed into their regular feed.
As many horses are reluctant to eat Spirulina, we recommend mixing it into a handful of soaked Haycobs, or trying OKAPI Spirulina Pellets, which are more readily accepted by many horses than the powder form.
OKAPI Spirulina is suitable for adult horses of all ages and breeds.
OKAPI Spirulina can be easily combined with other products. We recommend it with our OKAPI Detox Herbs.
We recommend administering Spirulina for a limited period of six to eight weeks. If Spirulina is used for a longer period, such as throughout the winter due to a lack of access to pasture, it has proven effective to administer it every other week: one week on, one week off, and so on. Spirulina combines very well with OKAPI Detox Herbs.
OKAPI Spirulina can be directly incorporated into the horse’s existing feed. Since many horses are reluctant to eat Spirulina, we recommend mixing it with a handful of soaked Haycobs, or trying OKAPI Spirulina Pellets, which are often better accepted by horses than the powder.
To calculate the appropriate amount of OKAPI Spirulina for your horse, follow these steps:
1. Determine your horse’s weight:
The horse’s weight can be measured using a scale, weight tape, or apps like the BCI App from our partner Sanoanimal, available for free on Google Play and Apple Store).
2. Use the feeding recommendation as your starting point:
The general recommendation for OKAPI products is based on a 600 kg horse. Horses receive 2 measuring scoops (1 scoop = 17g) per day over feed; ponies should receive about half this amount, depending on their size. The amount can be doubled if there is an increased need.
3. Adjust the amount to your horse’s weight:
For example, for a horse weighing 300 kg:
34 g ÷ 600 kg × 300 kg = 17 g per day
This calculation can be used to determine the appropriate amount for horses of different weights.
- 1.500g sufficient for approximately 4 - 8 Weeks
Composition: Spirulina platensis
Analytical constituents and levels: Crude fibre: 9,70%, Crude protein: 62,00%, Crude fat: 0,90%, Crude ash: 7,80%
Feed Material for horses
OKAPI Spirulina has an acquired taste and is often not liked to begin with, it has been successful to introduce small amounts by sprinkling it over the hay: Start with adding half a scoop onto dry or moistened hay or soaked OKAPI Sainfoin. Over the next 1-2 weeks gradually build up the dosage to the recommended amount. After approximately two weeks most horses accept OKAPI Spirulina without any further issues.