Effect of forage intake on bodyweight and performance

摘要: The horse evolved to survive on rations high in forage. Many performance horses are fed containing reduced levels of forage, with a corresponding increase concentrate supply. Such reductions forage intake widely established be associated number physiological and psychological adaptations. Therefore, the influence bodyweight (bwt) was investigated. Four Thoroughbred-type geldings light moderate work received 4 diets (100% [100H]; 80% forage:20% [80H]; 60% forage:40% [60H] 50% forage:50% [50H]) x Latin-square design. A submaximal standardised exercise test (SET) performed for each diet. Rate passage, bwt water intakes were measured throughout trial maximum, recovery heart rates postexercise rectal temperatures recorded SET. Mean +/- s.e. significantly (P<0.001) higher 100H compared 50H ration (556.89 546.28 kg, respectively). passage digesta (P<0.01) slower ration. Water SET maximum 1 min (P<0.05) (mean 44.72 39.07 l/day, 186 165 beats/min, 105 96 respectively) Post-SET tended increasing intakes, although these effects not significant 39.85 38.65 degrees C diets, In conclusion, has equine compromise needs made between potential detrimental low welfare.