The effect of dietary protein on reproduction in the mare. II. Growth of foals, body mass of mares and serum protein concentration of mares during the anovulatory, transitional and pregnant periods.

This study explores how varying the amount and quality of protein in a horse’s diet impacts both the mare and her foals’ growth and health. The research findings show that adequate protein intake is crucial for a mare’s body mass during lactation and the healthy growth of her foal.

Experiment Setup

• The research examined the effects of four different diets varying in protein quantity and quality on total serum protein (TSP), albumin, and globulin concentrations.
• The study subjects were non-pregnant mares not lactating (n=36), pregnant mares after foaling (n=24), and their foals (n=24).

Findings on Dietary Protein and Mare’s Protein Levels

• Results revealed that the mares’ daily total protein intake did not impact their blood protein concentrations.
• However, both the quantity and quality of protein intake did affect the body mass of mares during lactation.
• Pregnant mares that were fed the minimum daily protein recommended by the National Research Council (1989) had foals that were about 25% smaller at weaning compared to those whose dams received a higher protein diet.

Findings on Dietary Protein and Foal’s Growth

• The total serum protein concentrations of foals at birth were typically about 10 g/l lower than those of the mares.
• During the first 60 days of life, foals’ albumin levels were on average 2-3 g/l lower than the mares.
• At weaning, the foals’ globulin concentrations were approximately 5 g/l lower compared to the mares.

Conclusion

• The findings suggest that the amount and quality of protein intake in a mare’s diet, especially during lactation, can significantly affect foal’s growth and development.
• This indicates a critical need to pay attention to the protein content in the diet of lactating and pregnant mares to ensure desirable development of their offsprings.