Energy in feeds is measured in Calories. A Calorie is the amount of energy required to raise 1 kilogram of water 1 degree Celsius. NE is very difficult to measure. TDN takes into account digestible carbohydrates, protein, and fat. Fat has 2.25 times the energy content of carbohydrates anti protein.
Energy requirements vary individually based on differences in body metabolism and level of exercise.
Poor digestibility, 3. With starvation body fat is first used up which has no adverse effect on survival. As it progresses protein stores are used including those from muscle leading to weakness and failure of body systems. To correct obesity the horse's feed should be reduced to levels below maintenance requirements for its proper body weight. Exercise will aid in this by increasing energy burned and reducing the horse's appetite Proteins are made up of essential and non-essential amino acids.