Flax products are commonly used in horse rations and are often the preferred source of protein. Flax can be used as the sole protein supplement comprising as much as 15% of the dry matter in the diet.

The lysine content of the meal is too low, however, for young developing horses and needs to be supplemented into the diet to maximize growth and development.

Ground flaxseed or expeller-processed meal are thought to impart a glossy coat to the animal due to the oil content. Flaxseed meal is highly palatable and the mucilage also acts as a mild laxative and helps prevent digestive upset such as colic. Flax oil, ground flaxseed or expeller-processed meal can also be used as a source of essential fatty acids in the diet.

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