Cobalt

Cobalt is a trace mineral essential for equine health, primarily due to its role in the synthesis of vitamin B12 (cobalamin). Horses require cobalt in small amounts as it serves as a precursor for rumen and hindgut microbes to produce vitamin B12, which is necessary for red blood cell formation, energy metabolism, and nerve function. Since horses do not directly require cobalt itself but depend on it for microbial synthesis of vitamin B12, cobalt intake must be adequate in the diet.

Cobalt is naturally found in forages, particularly in legume-based feeds such as alfalfa and clover, though soil composition influences its concentration. Deficiencies in cobalt are rare but can lead to reduced vitamin B12 production, resulting in symptoms such as poor appetite, weight loss, and anemia.