Body Condition Changes
This overview explores the effects of Body Condition Score (BCS) on equine health and energy requirements. A higher BCS leads to increased maintenance needs, more feed, and slower recovery. The relationship between weight and energy requirements is significant, with an increase of 16 to 24 Mcal DE per kg gain depending on BCS. Additionally, different physical activities dictate the energy production needed—sprint activities require anaerobic energy while endurance activities rely on aerobic energy. Understanding these aspects is crucial for proper horse management. ###
Body Condition Changes
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Presentation Transcript
Body Condition Changes • Too high BCS • Heavier, maintenance higher • Require more feed – produce more heat • Excess fat decreases heat loss • Higher heart rate • Recover more slowly
Body Condition Changes • 16 to 20 kg per BCS increase/decrease • 16 to 24 Mcal DE required per kg gain • Less at lower BCS • More at higher BCS
Body Condition Changes • Less at lower BCS • 18 kg per BCS increase • 16 Mcal DE required per kg gain • 18 kg x 16 Mcal DE/kg = 288 Mcal
Body Condition Changes • More at higher BCS • 18 kg per BCS increase • 24 Mcal DE required per kg gain • 18 kg x 24 Mcal DE/kg = 432 Mcal
Body Condition Changes 500 kg mature horse, BCS 4 to 5
Physical Activity • Sprint activity • 1 min or less at 100% maximum exertion intensity • QH racing, barrel racing, rodeo events • Requires primarily anaerobic energy production
Physical Activity • Middle distances • Several minutes at 75-95% maximum exertion intensity • TB racing, Standardbred trotter racing • Requires both aerobic and anaerobic energy production
Physical Activity • Endurance • 2 h or more, low-intensity • Endurance, trail rides, ranch work, lesson horses, most show horses • Requires aerobic energy production
Energy Production • ATP used directly for muscle movement • Resynthesized immediately from creatine phosphate • Only enough for 6 to 8 sec maximum exertion • Amount not affected by diet
For More ATP: • 1. Glycolysis • Anaerobic metabolism of glucose or glycogen to lactic acid • Very rapid • But, only small amount ATP • Only a few minutes max exertion
For More ATP: • 2. Aerobic oxidation • Glucose, glycogen, fats, or protein to CO2 + H2O • Occurs more slowly • Much larger amount ATP • Prolonged activity