Evaluation of Horse Nutrition in an Equestrian Center of West Pomerania, Poland

The aim of the study was to evaluate the accuracy of equine nutrition at an equestrian center located in the West Pomeranian Voivodeship in Poland by analyzing the chemical composition of the rations used regarding the current equine nutritional standards. The study included 12 horses used for leisure riding, performing light or medium work under saddle. Daily feed rations were analyzed, including roughage (hay, sunflower husk), concentrated feed (oats, rice bran) and prepared feed mixes. The energy and protein values of the rations were evaluated based on chemical analysis of the feeds and calculations of digestible energy (DE) and digestible crude protein (DCP) values. The results indicate that feed rations did not always meet the horses’ needs. Excessive dietary energy was found in 11 of 12 horses’ diets (92%), while every diet was deficient in protein. Two horses with metabolic diseases were fed low-energy and low-protein diets, resulting in the lowest levels of DCP in the ration. However, this was not a nutritional mistake, but rather a deliberate therapeutic measure. Lack of individualized nutrition to meet the needs of individual horses can lead to metabolic disorders and health problems, such as excessive fatness or loss of muscle mass. Conclusions emphasize the need for precise balancing of feed rations, especially in terms of protein and energy supply. Optimizing feeding strategies by considering the individual nutritional needs of horses could enhance their welfare.