Cobalt is naturally found in the environment, in plants and in the soil. It is present in animals and is a critically required trace element (metal). It is a structural component of Vitamin B12 (which also called Cobalamin), with 4.3 % of the weight of the molecule consisting of Cobalt. 

Cobalt is naturally found in all animals and animal feed and is considered an essential dietary trace element and micronutrient. Cobalt deficiency is not observed in horses in the wild and the normal diet of horses in combination with the usual prescribed vitamin supplementation should supply the horse with sufficient Cobalt for its well-being and health. Cobalt is classed as a ’heavy metal’ and is a structural component of vitamin B12 (cobalamin). This vitamin is involved in the normal functioning of the brain and nervous system and in the final stages of red blood cell formation and maturation. All of Cobalt’s potential physiological effects in the horse have not yet been determined; however, high doses can present severe toxic effects and can be detrimental to the health of the horse.