Effect of premolar and molar occlusal angle on feed digestibility, water balance, and fecal particle size in horses.

This research investigated whether the molar and premolar occlusal angle (the angle at which a horse’s back teeth connect) impacts feed digestibility, water balance, or fecal particle size in horses. The study found no significant connection between these factors.

Study Design and Methodology

• The study followed the observational design and involved 40 pregnant mares aged between 3 to 19 years.
• The sample of horses was randomly assigned to one of five feeding groups, with eight horses in each group.
• The horses were sedated, and the molar occlusal angles (the angle at which premolar and molar teeth meet) were measured using two separate methods.
• An oral examination was also performed to identify and record dental abnormalities in the subjects.
• Seven and sixteen weeks after these measurements and examinations, the researchers took three measurements from the horses: the digestibility of their feed, their water balance, and the size of particles in their feces.

Results of the Study

• Measurements of the molar occlusal angle ranged from 6.3 to 19.3 degrees across the sample of horses.
• Analysis found the molar occlusal angle was not significantly tied with any of the three variables tested: feed digestibility, water balance, or fecal particle size.
• The total number of dental abnormalities found in the horses also had no significant association with feed digestibility.
• The researchers also found that the molar occlusal angle did not change significantly with the age of the horses.

Conclusions

• The research concluded that molar occlusal angles ranging from 6 degrees to 19 degrees do not affect the digestibility of feed, water balance, or fecal particle size in adult horses.
• The study also established that there is no significant association between a horse’s age and the molar occlusal angle.