The impact of nutrition on equine welfare

Abstract

The impact of nutrition on health and welfare of horses is mainly focussed on the adequate energy and nutrient intake, the consideration of the specific foraging behaviour, the limitation of concentrates to the specific needs, water availability and water quality as well as a safe feed hygiene. Common stereotypic behavioural disorders like crib-biting or weaving with a potential negative impact on welfare are partly influenced by feeding management, frequently by a lack of adequate roughage intake. Beside stereotypes, gastrointestinal disorders, muscle damage or obesity may result by feeding mistakes, herby impairing welfare up to severe pain (e.g. laminitis in obese ponies). In many cases feeding mistakes are due to a lack of knowledge to the specific needs of the equine rather than deliberate intention. The transfer of knowledge of the equine specific nutritional needs must be considered as a key point for veterinarians in safeguarding the welfare of horses.