Small errors in feeding can make a big difference in competitive horses’ performance. Performance horses are those actively in training for a competition and are typically ridden or trained at least than five times per week.
Optimal nutrition is essential for working horses to perform to their potential. All horses need a balanced daily ration consisting of six things: water, carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals.
For performance horses, “energy” is widely considered the most important part of the diet. Although feeding performance horses might seem relatively straightforward, there are some key issues that owners and trainers should recognize. This fact sheet reviews athletic horses’ nutritional needs and describes how to determine if your feeding program is working.
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