Zeolite - everything you need to know about feeding it to horses: Q&A and guide

Zeolite has established itself in recent years as a valuable aid in horse husbandry. More and more horse owners are using this natural volcanic rock to relieve the digestive system, bind toxins, and support their animals in special situations such as shedding or loose stools.

It's important to us to explain this topic simply and clearly , because we believe that information and knowledge are the best foundation for making sound decisions for the well-being of horses. In this article, you'll therefore learn everything you need to know about zeolite for horses – its effects, applications, and practical experience . Essentially, everything you've ever wanted to know about zeolite ♡

What is zeolite and why is it interesting for horses?

Zeolite is a natural mineral of volcanic origin that has been used in animal feed for decades. Its special ability to bind pollutants and support metabolic processes also makes it interesting for horses.

❓Why should you optimize horse feed with zeolite ?

1. Because horse feed can be contaminated with pollutants .
Horse feed can be contaminated with pollutants. Feedstuffs need to be preserved. They are sometimes bought in large quantities, which then sit unused and develop mycotoxins. A naturopathic practitioner showed me exactly when mold starts to form on rolled oats . It happens quite quickly.

2. Because pastures are fertilized with pesticides and artificial fertilizers . Or with liquid manure. Regardless of the animal, liquid manure is full of germs and often full of chemicals. If the liquid manure is applied using a trailing hose, the solid components remain on the ground and are essentially harvested along with the hay and then ingested by the horses.

3. Because sometimes the water isn't so clean anymore and contains nitrates and other pollutants. Especially in areas with heavy synthetic fertilizer use, the nitrates leach into the groundwater . And what I see time and again is that some horses drink water that flows through old lead pipes .

4. Because roughage is sometimes poorly dried , it can become contaminated with mold, toxins, and pollutants. Zeolite binds these physically. It's not rocket science, and it's not a chemical bond. It's a natural physical process because its large surface area allows it to adsorb these pollutants and remove them from the animal. It's also called a toxin binder.

5. Because conventional mineral feed pellets contain additives to make them pellets. These can be anything, including various sugars or synthetic binders.

Effects of zeolite in the horse's intestines

❓When should I optimize my horse's feed with zeolite? How does zeolite support my horse?

The right time to use zeolite often depends on the horse's condition – be it shedding, stress or digestive problems.

When finely pulverized through a tribomechanical grinding process, zeolite can bind pollutants due to its high internal surface area – adsorption capacity. Heavy metals, histamines, ammonia, mold spores, etc., are firmly bound and excreted.

Zeolite is a feed additive that optimizes horse feed with its unique properties. The feed is then of higher quality and provides the horse with essential nutrients . According to our customers and veterinarians, feed optimized with zeolite can support the shedding process , regulate digestion , prevent or quickly stop loose stools [>> see scientific studies here] , prevent laminitis , and provide support during times of stress.

Similarly, you can support your horse from within if it has allergies . And for all types of eczema , feed optimized with zeolite is a good choice.

Are there any studies on the use of zeolite in horses? Efficacy studies?

Yes, there are. But not many. I've compiled them once. It's always interesting to read how zeolite makes a difference in these studies as well. Also, check out the blog post: Sound Knowledge about Zeolite for Animals . It includes some excellent studies on dogs and cows. I know these animals' bodies function differently—but there are certainly basic principles governing how the gut and internal processes of mammals work. It's reassuring to see that many people and veterinary universities are already studying the effects of zeolite.
So, now to the individual studies with sources and the corresponding links:

• Training distance to failure in young racing Quarter Horses fed sodium zeolite A (1993, Nielsen et al.) – In a one-year study, young racehorses from 6 months of age received feed containing 0.66–2% zeolite A. Supplemented horses showed higher plasma silicon levels , and there was a significant positive correlation (R²≈0.54) between plasma silicon levels and the training distance covered until the first injury event. This suggests that bioavailable silicon from zeolite supports bone strength, connective tissue health , and can prevent injuries during training.
  Source: hrcak.srce.hr . DOI: 10.1016/S0737-0806(06)81526-1

• Supplemental silicon increases plasma and milk silicon concentrations in horses (2001, Lang et al.) – In a study of lactating Arabian mares, feeding clinoptilolite (as a silicon source) led to significantly increased silicon concentrations in the mares' plasma (after 30 days) and in their milk (after 45 days). The foals of the treated mares also showed higher plasma silicon levels.
  Silicon supplementation via zeolite thus increased the bioavailability of silicon in mares and foals, which may be relevant for bone health (although this study only showed trends, but no significant changes in bone metabolism markers).
  Source: DOI: 10.2527/2001.79102627x

• Increased plasma silicon concentrations and altered bone resorption in yearling horses (2001, Lang et al.) – In this follow-up study on yearlings, feeding 2% zeolite A also increased plasma silicon levels and influenced markers of bone metabolism; in particular , reduced bone resorption was observed. However, unlike broodmares, the yearlings did not show a significant increase in bone formation. Overall, the results indicate that zeolite A can have a beneficial effect on bone metabolism in young horses, although the effects are age- and physiologically dependent.
  Source: pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov . DOI: 10.1016/S0737-0806(01)70161-X

• Mineral balance in horses fed two supplemental silicon sources (2008, O'Connor et al.) – This study compared the effects of zeolite A with an organic silicon source (containing orthosilicic acid) in horses. Horses receiving 200 g/day of zeolite A showed improved silicon retention and increased plasma silicon levels compared to controls. The authors concluded that zeolite is an effective silicon source to support bone and joint health in horses.
  Source: hrcak.srce.hr . DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0396.2007.00724.x

To explain: Zeolite A is a synthetic zeolite; clinoptilolite, a natural zeolite , releases bioavailable silicon in equine practice in a similar way. Both forms are used to promote bone health. The studies mentioned above emphasize that zeolites are neither absorbed by the horse nor do they act as a nutrient, but they do release bioactive silicon (orthosilicic acid) in the gut, which can support bone mineralization. And that's a really good thing.

In addition to scientific studies, practical experience is particularly valuable. Many veterinarians confirm that zeolite can be a useful supplement in certain situations. Here's an example from veterinary experience:

💬 “Zeolite is not a substitute for veterinary treatment, but it is a valuable aid in daily stable life. Horses with sensitive digestive tracts especially benefit from it, because the mineral binds excess toxins and stabilizes the intestinal environment.” – Veterinarian specializing in equine nutrition

Zeolite for typical problems in horses

❓ Does zeolite help with diarrhea in horses?

Yes, zeolite can be helpful for horses with loose stools. This natural mineral binds excess acids, toxins, and pollutants in the intestines that result from abnormal fermentation. At the same time, it soothes irritated intestinal lining and stabilizes the gut flora. Zeolite is particularly helpful for loose stools caused by diet or stress, as well as being used as part of a comprehensive intestinal cleanse.

Simply increase the dosage and let the zeolite powder boost the horse's self-regeneration.

❓ Are there any studies that show zeolite is effective against diarrhea and watery stools?

Yes, there are studies. However , research on the effectiveness of zeolite for loose stools in horses is still limited. Most of the findings come from general veterinary examinations of other animals (lambs, calves, pigs, and chickens). Nevertheless, they provide strong indications that zeolite can also be effective in horses for binding toxins, protecting the intestinal lining, improving stool consistency, and stabilizing the gut flora . That's something, isn't it?

❓How can zeolite help with laminitis?

"Zeolite supports horses suffering from laminitis caused by poisoning and draws the poison out of the body. A horse that has been prone to laminitis in the past is more likely to develop it again. Regular intake of zeolite can have a preventative effect."
Armin Eberle, Swiss hoof orthopedist.

All chronic and acute illnesses are due to weaknesses in the immune system .

Laminitis is a thrombosis in the hoof, meaning thickened blood clogs various capillaries. This prevents nutrient exchange, causing the vessels to become inflamed and die. --> You can read more background information about laminitis here.

❓My farrier recommended your products to me. I'm looking for a good remedy to help my Icelandic gelding with sweet itch.

With our product Many horse owners have reported positive results with Horsekraft Zeolite Black Cumin in treating skin eczema . Supplementing the feed with the zeolite pellets helps reduce skin inflammation and supports the horse's natural defenses against mosquitoes, flies, and other insects via the gut. If the affected areas are weeping, our skin powder can be applied externally, and for scabies, our wound ointment is recommended.

The zeolite content of the pellets optimizes the feed and makes the organic black cumin even more effective. The horse emits the scent. It's undetectable to human noses, but black flies, horseflies, and ticks can detect it. And they dislike it.

❓Why does your black cumin zeolite product work?

I gave my horse black cumin seed oil. It didn't really have any effect on my horse. Why does black cumin seed zeolite powder work?

Because zeolite binds the pollutants and prepares the environment that allows the active ingredients of genuine black cumin to work. Please use organic black cumin oil. Conventional black cumin production relies on pesticides. Pesticides can easily trigger allergies in horses. And yes, our Horsekraft black cumin is organic. So: zeolite binds the pollutants in the gut and allows the black cumin to work effectively.

👉Here you can read many customer experiences. A good collection about effects and application examples.

❓Which veterinarians and experts recommend zeolite?

Many veterinarians and equine nutritionists consider zeolite a beneficial feed supplement. They particularly emphasize the mineral's ability to bind toxins in the gut, thus relieving the burden on the organism. Zeolite has also been studied and used in various areas of veterinary medicine for years – for example, to support gut flora or to treat problems such as diarrhea.

In practice, veterinarians report that horses with sensitive digestion, during shedding season, or under increased stress can benefit from zeolite. Additionally, zeolite is valued by experts in agriculture, where it has long been used to improve feed hygiene and stable management.

👉 Important to remember: Zeolite does not replace veterinary treatment, but can be a valuable addition in consultation with experts.

💬 "In my practice, I use zeolite as a supplement for horses suffering from diarrhea or dietary changes. Many animals show a significant improvement within a few weeks, without any side effects." – Equine veterinarian

Zeolite in everyday life – feeding and dosage

❓What particle size/fineness should the zeolite powder for horses have?

Together with zeolite experts, we decided on a medium grain size of 24 microns (µm) for use in horses. A larger grain size would require a higher dosage to achieve the same effect. The coarser the grain, the lower its adsorption capacity. The finer it is, the larger the surface area and the less zeolite needs to be added to the feed. Digestion is quite a sensitive process in horses, so 24 microns is pretty much ideal.

Read more about grain size/particle size >>>

❓How do I dose zeolite correctly for horses ?

We recommend using the horse's weight as a guideline.
So:
Your horse has 400kg : then add 25g of zeolite (2.5 scoops per day) to the horse feed.
600kg : 35g = 3.5 measuring spoons per day
800kg : 45g = 4.5 measuring spoons per day

❓Which is better: zeolite powder or zeolite pellets?

That's a matter of taste. The 24µm powder is gently pelletized, and no additives are used. Yes, the pellets hold their shape. Nothing else is needed.

Pellets are easier to measure, easier to handle, and don't produce dust. Powder and pellets cost the same. That's how we wanted it. I don't want price to be the deciding factor. I want you to decide what makes more sense. We opted for pellet production because customers kept asking for it and wanted it. The pellet bucket holds more (4.5 kg), so it lasts longer.

However, some horses will pick out every single pellet. In that case, powder is better. It mixes well with the feed. The feed authority says that pellets must be dissolved beforehand anyway. You can sprinkle it on top of hay and moisten it slightly.

Dear customers from Tyrol sent us this photo of the pellet dispenser . In this stable, zeolite is an integral part of the routine for the horses' well-being. In the fourth container, you can see the pure zeolite pellets for easy removal and feeding.

❓What should I do if my horse won't eat the zeolite ?

We dedicated an entire article to that.
Get inspired and share your tip with us. Hop on over >>>

❓How do I best use zeolite?

It's best to add it to the feed so that it mixes homogeneously. Zeolite is a technological (that's actually its name) additive used to optimize animal feed.

The correct name of zeolite powder is 1g568 and it is approved as a binder and flow agent for reducing the contamination of animal feed . For all animal species.

Therefore, zeolite should be added to the feed and mixed in thoroughly. Mix it into the mash or onto the hay and then moisten it. Do this once a day. If the horse is receiving medication or additional mineral supplements, ensure there is at least a two-hour interval between administration.

❓Can zeolite also bind synthetic mineral feed?

Yes. Many mineral feeds contain synthetic minerals. These are also bound.

❓And proteins?

They will not be adsorbed (i.e., firmly bound and not released) nor absorbed (i.e., drawn in), but they might stick to the zeolite powder. Please leave two hours between applications.

Does zeolite bind vitamins?

No. They are definitely far too large in their structure and don't fit into the crystal lattice. Therefore, zeolite cannot process vitamins or amino acids.

❓How long should zeolite be fed to horses? Continuously or as a course of treatment?

We recommend a course of treatment lasting 2-3 months, using double the dose. This is especially important if you haven't optimized the feed in a long time, or if you haven't detoxified the horse. However, the dose should not exceed 1% of the total feed amount. This is the guideline from the Austrian feed authority.

And then you can decide whether you want to further optimize the daily feed. It also depends on the quality of the feed. How is it stored? Does the hay have good nutrients? How does my horse react to pesticides?

For older horses, we recommend adding it to their feed regularly to provide the best possible support and relief. A feed optimized with zeolite helps prevent many problems, relieves the detoxification organs, and a good acid-base balance in the body is a good start.

And it depends on whether you want to support your horse from within. During shedding, for relaxation, with metabolic disorders, if it's overweight, due to lack of exercise, in stressful situations – changing stables, new stablemates, etc. – or when transitioning to pasture. If your horse starts nibbling on tree bark or fences, it might need silicon. Silicon is the main component of zeolite.

❓When to add zeolite – BEFORE intestinal cleansing and wonderful herbs... or DURING?

We recommend optimizing the feed with zeolite before gut cleansing or adding beneficial herbs, so that the gut is properly prepared and freed from toxins. If there are too many toxins in the digestive tract, the animal cannot absorb the new, beneficial microbiome, and the active ingredients of the sometimes quite expensive herbs cannot reach their full potential. Therefore, it's best to do this beforehand.

❓Does STEINKRAFT's zeolite products contain sugar?

No. There is no sugar in ANY HORSEKRAFT product. Of course not. Not even in the pellets. We have an excellent production method, so the pellets don't need sugar or any other binding agent to become pellets.
Zeolite pellets contain only zeolite. 100%.

❓Is zeolite on the doping list?

No. Zeolite is doping-free. It's a completely natural supplement. Optimized feed leads to a more harmonious horse . Either it becomes calmer and more mindful because it feels better in its own skin and has a better sense of its body, or the horse becomes more alert and attentive because its gut requires less energy.

Quality criteria for zeolite for horses

❓How can I recognize the quality of zeolite?

1. A particle size of 24µm is best, according to horse experts, because of their sensitive digestive system. Don't use anything coarser, because then you have to feed more to achieve the desired effect (and feeding more would also mean more expensive, wouldn't it?). And it might be too coarse for the horses, and they won't eat it easily. Sometimes a horse owner tells me that zeolite didn't help with loose stools. I then ask how fine the powder was. Most of the time they don't know, and it's not stated anywhere on the product. They send it to us, and we analyze the zeolite. Often, it turns out to be over 100 microns. That's very coarse, and you have to use several times the amount to achieve any effect. This quantity is off-putting, and people then use the dosage instructions for a fine powder – which is then insufficient.

2. Tribomechanically pulverized and activated in an airflow . Only in this way can the natural mineral unleash its full potential, because it is charged and this is how the suction effect truly develops. And above all, it remains pure.

We recently spoke with a customer on the phone. She wanted to know if tribomechanical milling is really that important, or if it's somewhat overrated. We recommend doing the magnet test. Hold a magnet to the edge of the glass containing dissolved zeolite in water and see what happens. If zeolite is milled using conventional methods, there's a very high probability that metal shavings from the granules will end up in the zeolite powder. Additionally, the crystal lattice inside the zeolite is compressed and then no longer performs its intended function.

In summary: There are 8-micron products on the market that exhibit high levels of pollutants. Our hypotheses:

1. Grinding using conventional grinding methods (the dark cloud is the abrasion. Zeolite contains iron. But if a cloud actually appears, then it is abrasion.)
2. Storage: If zeolite is improperly packaged, transported, and stored, even the originally pure zeolite can become contaminated because this natural mineral attracts pollutants. Prof. Dr. Hecht has very emphatically pointed out these potential contamination possibilities and recounted many stories about them.

Read more about why the tribomechanical grinding process is so important >>>

❓Where does Steinkraft Zeolite come from - where is it mined?

We examined all raw materials from the EU in detail and decided on the mining site in eastern Slovakia . This raw material was the best choice for the production experts (who looked at all raw materials in Europe) AND it was described by Prof. Dr. Karl Hecht as the best raw material source due to its composition.

❓Can zeolite be organic?

No. A product can only be organic if a non-organic version of it also exists. Zeolite is a rock. It can't be organic. Only natural. So, if something says "organic zeolite" or "zeolite of organic quality," it's a marketing gimmick. It can't be true.

We find this important. These manipulative statements suggest to us a lack of respect shown towards this valuable product of nature.

❓How is Steinkraft Zeolite ground?

Steinkraft uses tribomechanical pulverization. We have a huge machine in production – actually, it's two machines, neatly lined up parallel to each other. We decide when to micronize and how fine we want the powder to be. You can read more about it here >>>

❓Is Steinkraft Zeolite regularly tested for heavy metals?

Yes. Feed manufacturers are required to do so. BUT: a heavy metal analysis of the ground product is crucial. This ensures that heavy metal contamination from ball milling doesn't only become apparent during a magnet test. And HORSEKRAFT Zeolite for horses is produced by a certified feed manufacturer. CO2 neutral. If anyone's interested in that. It's important to us.

❓Can aluminum leach out of zeolite?

No. I know that the idea that aluminum can leach out and then my horse gets aluminum contamination from the zeolite is sometimes circulated. That's nonsense.

Aluminum is tightly bound in natural zeolite. The higher the ratio of silicon to aluminum, the more stable this compound. Anything above 5:1 is good. To reiterate: Professor Hecht always said that it's not the amount of aluminum, but the ratio of silicon to aluminum that's important.
However, with synthetically produced zeolite, it can very well happen that aluminum is not bound very firmly and therefore dissolves.

As I said, this applies to synthetically produced zeolite. Therefore, it's also important to buy natural zeolite. Ideally, from a trusted zeolite manufacturer. Zeolite dealers sometimes aren't very knowledgeable. I notice this when I ask questions...

❓I read that the higher the clinoptilolite content in the zeolite, the greater its effect - is that true?

No, that's not correct. Professor Dr. Karl Hecht repeatedly emphasized this. The mineralogical analysis always provides range values ​​because the clinoptilolite content varies from batch to batch. Professor Hecht always considered the overall mineralogical composition important, specifically the ratio of silicon to aluminum. This should be at least 5:1. Furthermore, the grinding process is crucial. Tribomechanical grinding is important because this pulverization method doesn't contaminate the material, preserves its purity, and, most importantly, breaks up the crystal lattice structures instead of compressing them.

HOWEVER: for zeolite to be suitable for optimizing animal feed, the clinoptilolite content must be >80%. And not every mining site can achieve that.

❓Do I need to detoxify my horse?

Yes, absolutely. Stress hormones leave toxins in the body, and mycotoxins in moldy hay need to be eliminated. The gut microbiome needs to be regularly rebalanced. All of this is reason enough to do a detox program at least once a year. The gut can then absorb beneficial nutrients much more effectively.
You could also start reading with the first question here. And here's an image for Pinterest . We'd be very happy if you saved the pin and shared the knowledge with the world.

Conclusion – Zeolite as a natural support for horses

Zeolite is not a miracle cure, but a proven natural aid in horse husbandry. Due to its unique structure, it can bind toxins, relieve the digestive system, and thus support the animals' well-being. Many horse owners report positive experiences – whether with loose stools, during shedding season, or as a general feed supplement.

It remains important to note: Zeolite does not replace veterinary diagnosis or treatment, but can be used as a useful supplement to daily care.

👉 Discover our zeolite for horses now in the Steinkraft shop , carefully selected and available in various versions.

Read more >> Summer eczema in horses? This can help . Or zeolite for dogs: 10 good reasons to enrich dog food with zeolite. Here we've compiled the best horse blogs . A colorful collection, just as we would have liked. Simply click on the images and you'll be taken directly to the related articles.

👉 Here you'll find the product of the month and a good overview of all STEINKRAFT product lines.
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