Milk production
The requirement for energy during lactation is determined by the rate of milk production and the composition of the milk. Smaller breeds usually have a higher rate of milk production relative to body weight than larger horses. This is provided for in the program.
Milk production in mares per 100 kg of body weight
|
Body weight |
1st month |
2nd month |
3rd month |
|
Less than 200 kg |
3.0 |
3.5 |
3.0 |
|
More than 200 kg |
2.5 |
3.0 |
2.5 |
Energy requirements for milk production, MJ per 100 kg body weight
|
Month of lactation |
|||
|
Body weight |
1 |
2-3 |
4-5 |
|
Less than 200 kg |
12.9MJ |
13.0MJ |
10.6MJ |
|
More than 200 kg |
10.8MJ |
11.2MJ |
8.9MJ |