Seasonal Changes in Trace-Element Content in the Coat of Hucul Horses

SIMPLE SUMMARY: The proper development and health of the body is determined by the correct concentration and proportion of minerals in tissues, body fluids, and also in the coat. Due to its structure, the coat is an excellent biological material for assessing the accumulation of metals in the animal’s body over a long period of time. Changes in the mineral profile can occur under the influence of various factors, such as age, breed, the quality of feed consumed, and the season in which the sample was obtained. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of seasons on the content of selected trace elements in the hair of Hucul horses kept in semi-natural living conditions. It was found that there were differences in the levels of the trace elements studied according to the season. In addition, positive correlations was shown between the content of iron and manganese as well as iron and aluminium. The occurrence of variability not only within seasons but also between the studied populations indicates the need for further research. ABSTRACT: The purpose of the study was to evaluate seasonal changes in selected trace elements such as Fe, Cu, Mn, Zn, and Al in the coat of healthy Hucul horses kept in south-eastern Poland in two different facilities and fed with locally sourced feed. The coat for the study was collected from 24 individuals in autumn, winter, and spring. The concentration of elements in the feed was also determined. The date of collection had a significant effect on the concentration of the micronutrients analysed in the coat of Hucul horses. The highest concentration of Zn was found in the coat taken in summer. The coat taken in autumn had the highest concentrations of Fe, Cu, Mn, and Al compared with the other seasons. The highest concentrations of Fe, Mn, and Al were found in fur taken in winter, with the lowest levels of Zn. Positive correlations were found between the content of iron and manganese, iron and aluminium, and manganese and aluminium in the coat of Hucul horses. A clear inter-individual and inter-stable variability was found, which may indicate the need for further research that also takes into account other factors.