Characterization of the Feeding Practices in Colombian Native Horses using Feeding-Throughs

Abstract

There is an assumption that the feeding of horses with feeding-through is empirical in the Antioquia Province. This article aims to characterize the feeding methods of the Colombian native horses kept in stables. To do so, 14 feeding-throughs were visited (103 horses), and the following information was gathered: age, physiological status (pregnant, lactating, growing, work intensity), weight, body condition, ration (weight of each 24-hours food piece provided). The balance between digestible energy and gross protein, dry matter consumption, and the ratio forage/concentrate based on their physiological status were calculated. It was found that a high percentage of subjects are obese and do mild-to-moderate physical work. Most of the feeding-throughs provide the daily ration divided into three takes per day, and the ratio forage/concentrate was inappropriate in 28.6% of the subjects. Based on the living weight, consumption of dry matter given in percentage was found at an average of 2.5%, ranging from 1.6 to 3.4%. The nutritional balance of energy indicated 15 subjects (14.5%) in equilibrium. In excess were found 84 subjects (81.5%). The protein balance indicated six subjects in equilibrium (5.8%). In excess were found 85 subjects (82.5%). Twelve subjects were found in deficit (11.6%). In conclusion, dividing the ration into three takes per day leads to an inappropriate ratio of rofage/concentrate. Providing the dry matter without considering the physiological status and the excess of digestible energy and gross protein in the ration are also frequent fallencies that predispose the subjects to digestive pathologies and laminitis.