Title: Explain how to formulate a balanced ration for an individual horse.
Course: Equine Science (18104-I) > Section: Understanding Horse Nutrition

Explanation should include

- a horse’s daily nutritional requirements
  - carbohydrates
  - protein
  - fats
  - vitamins
  - minerals
  - water
  - macro and micro minerals
  - amino acids (e.g., lysine, methionine, tryptophan, and threonine)
- critical considerations when balancing an equine ration
  - body condition score
  - 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
    - mature horse
    - young horse
  - weight of the horse
  - mineral and vitamin supplements.

Teacher Resource:

- Nutritional Requirements of Horses and Other Equids, Merck Manual Veterinary Manual

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?
- What information can the extension service provide about hay quality?
- How can the time of cutting of hay (early/late) affect nutrient content?
- What factors indicate good quality hay (e.g., color, smell, leafiness vs. hard stems, signs of insect damage)?
- Who can conduct a hay analysis, and why is this important?