September 5, 2003, Newsletter Issue #141: DIET AND FEEDING Tips
Tip of the Week
The Stomach of the horse is relatively small for the size of the animal. The average Stomach is only from 2 to 4 gallons or 8 to 15 liters; and about ten percent of the entire digestive tract.
Small amounts frequently has always been the rule of thumb for feeding horses, due to the relatively quick movement of food through the horses` system. The amount of digestion that takes place in the horse`s Stomach is relatively small; with the greatest digestion of the easily assumed feeds, taking place in the Small Intestine.
The Small Intestine comprises about 30 percent of a horses` digestive processes; and is broken down into three separate parts. These parts are the Duodenum, the Jejunum and the Ileum.
The first part, or the Duodenum is where the bile is secreted and where 60 to 70 percent of all digestion of proteins and fats takes place.
In the final region of the Small Intestine is the Ileum and is where colic will most often occur. The musculature of the Ileum is estensive; hence why colic most often occurs here.
The Large Intestine carries about 30 to 70 liters of the remains of a horse`s diet, before it moves into the Rectum. The Rectum, which is only about 12 inches long.
REMEMBER: Remember to have fun, and to wear a SMILE~!~!
In October, it will be Winter Management of Horse, and Property Tips.
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