Nutrition of horses: digestion, energy and protein evaluation and nutritional standards
Van 't Klooster, A.T.; Hallebeek, J.M.; Beynen, A.C.
Tijdschrift Voor Diergeneeskunde 124(13): 401-405
1999
ISSN/ISBN: 0040-7453 PMID: 10418080 Document Number: 498425
The diet of horses should cover the energy and nutrient requirements of these animals. The desired composition of the ration depends on its digestion in the equine gastrointestinal tract. Nutritional problems or diseases caused by incorrect composition of the ration or by incorrect feeding should be prevented. The digestion of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in the different parts of the gastrointestinal tract is described. In addition, the recently introduced net energy and digestible protein evaluation systems for feeds, and the energy and protein requirements of horses are presented.