by Jeanne Adams

Created on: July 20, 2007   Last Updated: June 25, 2009

A Brief on Equine Nutrition

In contrast to other herbivores, equines have a rather primitive digestive system. Fortunately, current grain mixes and supplements are much more convenient and complete than ever before. Becoming familiar with what the daily required food elements are will help you build the best nutrition plan for your individual horse. Stick to some basic feeding guidelines and feel confident that your horse will remain healthy and stay at his peak.

All equine species have evolved into grazing animals spending two-thirds of the day foraging the available grasses and vegetation. The stomach of the average horse is small, with the capacity of only two to four gallons. Another limitation is the one-way digestive system which makes colic a persistent concern. If something toxic or an excess amount is ingested, there can be no relief of regurgitation. Additionally, because horses do not have a gall bladder, high fat diets are difficult for horses to process.

The science behind equine nutrition has made great strides in maximizing the nutritional potential for the horse. Because of this surge in nutritional products, it can be somewhat overwhelming choosing a plan that best fits your horse's requirements. Your veterinarian or equine professional should be consulted when considering an overall feeding regimen. The season of the year is also a major factor in deciding what quantities and products are needed. Keeping a watchful eye on your horse's fitness level and body weight will help determine any minor adjustments needed.

These are the food elements required daily for optimal health:

Proteins: Help in muscle development during growth or exercise. Horses acquire protein, or amino acids, from both their grain mix and plant proteins.
Ten of the 22 Essential Amino Acids must be consumed every day. Nonessential Amino Acids can be synthesized by microorganisms within the horse's digestive tract and metabolic processes from vitamins. Most adult horses only require 8 to 10% protein daily; however, feeds with 12 to 14% protein are readily available for the equine athlete, breeding stock and foals.

Energy:
Energy is a necessity for sustaining life. Horses gain energy from carbohydrates and fats. Soluble carbohydrates are the sugars and starches and are readily obtained in every feed source; corn with the highest content, then barley and oats. Insoluble carbohydrates are found in the cellulose of roughage and grains. Fats are the oils found in the grain mix and roughage.

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