Effects of various feeding regimens on the energy balance of equine neonates.

This study investigates the impact of different feeding strategies on energy balance in newborn foals, finding that nourishment from mares’ milk results in positive energy balance, whereas milk replacer or total parenteral nutrition can result in negative energy balance or health complications.

Research Methodology

The researchers used 14 pony foals in the study. These foals were divided into three groups based on their feeding method:

• Group A consisted of foals who suckled their dams.
• Group B foals were fed with a milk replacer.
• Group C foals were given total parenteral nutrition (TPN).

The research conducted energy balance studies over three specific postpartum days – the 2nd, 4th, and 7th.

Findings

For Group A (suckling foals), the study recorded an increase in mean Gross Energy (GE) intake between days 2 and 7. These foals excreted about 3% of GE through urine and feces, and their energy expenditure stayed consistent. This led to an overall positive energy balance for these foals and an increase in average body weight.

Meanwhile, Group B foals (fed on milk replacer) ingested more energy than Group A did from day 4 onwards. This is attributable to the higher energy content of milk replacers as compared to mares’ milk. However, their mean energy loss was 14% of GE on day 2, but it decreased subsequently. Energy expenditure in this group was less than that in Group A, leading to an overall positive energy balance.

Group C foals, who were fed via TPN, had the lowest energy intake and expenditure. As a result, their energy balance was negative on the 2nd postpartum day. These foals also showed signs of gastrointestinal tract issues.

Conclusions

The study concludes that mares’ milk has high digestibility and leads to a positive energy balance in neonatal foals, while milk replacers are initially less digestible. TPN feeding was found to be associated with negative energy balance, emphasizing the benefits of enteral feeding with mares’ milk, and pointing out the technical and clinical challenges of TPN.