The impact of nutrition on the health and welfare of horses

Book excerpt: The impact of nutrition on the health and welfare of the horse, whether performing at the highest athletic level or for leisure use, cannot be underestimated. To maintain good health and optimum performance the horse requires much more than just the correct levels of nutrients. In addition to avoiding an excess or a deficiency of nutrients the 'packaging' and form in which the horse ingests these nutrients plays an important role both for the horse’s body and mind. Incorrect nutrition contributes to occurrence of colic, obesity, metabolic syndrome, laminitis, rhabdomyolisis and stereotypic, abnormal or unwanted behaviours. This book explores the impact of nutrition on health and welfare in horses. The chapters provide an up to date review and evaluation of our current understanding in the areas below. -Nutritional requirements and physiology -Nutrition, behaviour and welfare -Promoting health and preventing disease -Gastrointestinal health -Metabolic disease -Functional nutritional ingredients -Nutrition and performance This book is the 5th volume in a series conceived through the European Workshop of Equine Nutrition (EWEN) which falls under the umbrella of the Horse Commission of the European Association of Animal Production (EAAP). The aim is to facilitate discussion between equine nutrition scientists and to create a bridge between scientists, practitioners and the horse industry. The ultimate aim is to support good equine health and welfare practice through the best nutrition science possible. As such this book is a valuable compilation of knowledge for research scientists, veterinarians, nutritionists, academics and students.