Nutritional Physiology of the Horse

Nutrition is an essential part of the daily management of the horse. It affects the health, welfare and performance of the animal. In natural surroundings the horse would spend up to 65% of time foraging for food. The digestive system reflects this behavioural process. Whilst recent advances in equine nutrition have improved our knowledge of how to optimise the feeding of horses under different physiological challenges, this book tries to incorporate the interaction between nutritional and behavioural requirements. The dynamic interaction between feed characteristics, the physiology of the animal and processes of nutrient absorption are examined in depth, drawing on a biological approach to solving problems associated with nutrition as well as an applied approach for the equine industry. This involves analysing current feed evaluation systems to quantify the digestive process and the requirements of the horse. A balance needs to be maintained between feeds available, the biology of digestion and nutrient requirements. This book aims to blend theoretical knowledge and practical feed management by creating an understanding of the physiological processes which form the basis for practical rationing.