Explanation should include
- a horse’s daily nutritional requirements
- carbohydrates
- protein
- fats
- vitamins
- minerals
- water
- chlorine
- beta carotene
- amino acids (e.g., lysine, methionine, tryptophan, and threonine)
- critical considerations when balancing an equine ration
- class of the horse
- health of the horse
- digestive system
- parasite control
- teeth
- percentage of dietary protein needs (forage and grain)
- energy needs (carbohydrates)
- types of grain feed
- roughage
- pasture hay
- lucerne hay
- oaten hay
- wheaten hay
- quantity of feed, based on
- body weight
- body condition
- work requirements
- temperament
- calcium and phosphorus
- weight of the horse
- mineral and vitamin supplements.
Process/Skill Questions:
- How does the health of a horse affect its nutritional needs?
- What adjustments to a horse's ration might be necessary, depending on the condition of the teeth?
Teacher Resource: Wood, Craig H.; Jackson, Stephen; and Baker, John P., "Formulating Rations for Horses" (1988). Agriculture and Natural Resources Publications. (https://uknowledge.uky.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1004&context=anr_reports)