Vitamins are one of the six general groups of nutrients needed by horses and other animals. The other groups are water, carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and minerals. Vitamins are carbon-containing compounds that are needed in relatively small amounts (mg or ug) by the body to support normal metabolism.

Metabolism involves the breakdown and formation of molecules within the body. Vitamins cannot be synthesized within the body in sufficient amounts, so they must be supplied in the diet. Vitamins are classified into two groups according to their solubility in either water or fat. The B-complex vitamins and Vitamin C, which function in the watery areas, are called water-soluble vitamins.

Vitamins that function in the fatty tissues are labeled fat-soluble. They include vitamins A, D, E and K. Solubility influences a vitamin's mode of action, storage capability and toxicity. Vitamin C and the B-vitamins, except B₁₂, are not stored in the body. They enter the body, are present in intra-cellular and extra-cellular fluids and are excreted in the urine without much modification within about 24 hours.

Water-soluble vitamins are not considered to be toxic. Fat-soluble vitamins A and D are stored in the liver and can be viewed as hormones, since they are produced in one location and function in another location. They are not as easily absorbed as water-soluble vitamins and can be toxic if over-consumed.

Vitamin E and the vitamin A precursor, beta-carotine, are stored in fat tissue and are not considered to be toxic. Vitamin K is a coenzyme that has both water-soluble and fat-soluble varieties. It is necessary for the proper formation of blood clots, which prevent bleeding.

Large amounts of vitamins cannot make horses faster or better at their respective sports. However, less than optimal amounts of vitamins can limit performance.

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