Development of Complete Pelletized Rations for Racing Horses at Different Stages of Growth

Abstract

A complete pelletized ration for racing horses was designed, so that it might be developed in place of conventional feeds. Then suggestions were made on the feeding standard of this ration at each stage of growth, based on literatures. Except for the stage of weanling, the growing stage of horses yearling or more was divided into three periods on the basis of the development of bone and muscle, as well as the burden of exercise assigned. The requirements of digestible crude protein (DCP), total digestible nutrients (TDN), and crude fiber at each stage of growth were suggested. The protein requirements, for example, were set up for three stages of growth as 12, 10, and 8%, respectively. Due to these feeding standards, three formulae of complete pelletized ration were established for racing horses. Of course, the vitamins and minerals essen tial for racing horses were included as premixes. When the feed consumption was estitmated to be 2 % of body weight, the required energy was also pro duced from the ration.