ABSTRACT
The nutrients horses require are the same as those required by other warm-blooded animals: energy, protein, minerals, vitamins, and water. Potassium is usually considered a major mineral in cattle feeding, but horses' needs are usually met in the feeds supplied. The biggest problem in nutrition of barren mares is that of regulating their condition to reduce fat, to tone muscles, and to provide exercise. Condition can be improved if overweight mares can be subdivided into like groups with reduced feed. Mares are more susceptible to colic from moldy hay than any other large domestic farm animal. Be sure the mare is on a good worm program because strongyles vulgarus triggers more colic than any other single cause of colic in horses. Nutrition for a breeding herd simply involves supplying mares with the essential nutrients at the appropriate time period in their production cycles. Maintain dry mares in athletic condition, but avoid a shortage of any nutrient at any time.
