engleski

Physiological and ethological aspects of horse feeding

The paper aimed to define the frequency of feeding (frequency of rations) of "modern" horse, regarding the physiological and ethological aspects of horses. From an evolutionary and physiological point, the horse was built for constant feeding. The rations have to provide an adequate supply of energy and nutrients and largely affect the horses' ethology. The management of feeding and quality of ration affects the horses' health and welfare. Today horses are far less physically active than before. The frequency of rations affects the physiological parameters of digestion and the aetiology of the horse. How to balance the appropriate ration frequency considering the physiological and ethological aspects, and the usage of the horse itself depends primarily on the daily amount and quality of feed required for the horse to remain fit. Usually, adult horses have two rations a day with a 10-hour daily interval and 14-hours nightly interval between rations. The frequency of a horses’ ration varies depending on the way of keeping, category, physiological condition and usage. The effect of feeding on the health and welfare of horses is mainly focused on the appropriate intake of energy and nutrients and on the consideration of the aetiology of feeding, limiting concentrates to specific needs, availability of water and hygienic correctness of feed and water. Knowledge of the specific feeding needs of horses in physiology and aetiology should be considered an essential part of preserving the horses' welfare.

feeding ; horse ; feeding frequency

nije evidentirano