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Myth or Fact? "All horses and livestock can thrive on the same diet."
Myth! While all animals need essential nutrients, their dietary needs vary based on species, age, workload, metabolism, and health conditions. Feeding a one-size-fits-all diet can lead to nutrient imbalances, digestive issues, and performance setbacks.
Fact: Every animal benefits from a tailored nutrition plan to meet its unique energy and health requirements. Here’s why:
Horses:
Performance horses (reining, barrel racing, jumping, etc.) need higher energy intake, electrolyte balance, and muscle recovery support due to intense physical demands.
Senior horses often require softer, more digestible feeds with extra joint support and fiber for maintaining weight and mobility.
Easy keepers prone to metabolic disorders (like EMS or laminitis) need controlled starch intake and a diet rich in fiber and healthy fats instead of excessive grain.
Cattle & Show Livestock:
High-production dairy cows require more protein, calcium, and phosphorus to support milk production, while beef cattle need optimized energy intake for efficient weight gain.
Show cattle, sheep, and goats need a balanced mix of protein, fat, and fiber to develop muscle definition without unnecessary fat buildup.
Breeding stock (heifers, sows, ewes) need proper vitamin and mineral balance to support fertility, fetal development, and overall reproductive health.
The Bottom Line: Different animals have different nutritional requirements based on their physiology and purpose. Providing species-appropriate, life-stage-specific nutrition ensures optimal health, longevity, and performance.