Horse manure, a key element in horse health
Frédérique Cauffmann
Manure is often tedious to pick up, but it's always important to take the time to analyze it.
General information about manure:
On average, a horse produces 15 kilograms of manure per day in 6 to 8 bowel movements. The defecation time is approximately 15 seconds. The frequency and nature of manure vary depending on the horse's age, sex, physical activity, and diet. Coprophagy may result from boredom or stress rather than nutritional deficiency. Normal signs of manure:
Manure should be well-formed, without whole foods. The color is usually uniform, green/brown, with minimal odor. Variations may be due to elements such as beet pulp or oil.
Abnormal signs to watch for:
Dry manure may indicate a lack of fiber, dental problems, or dehydration. Diarrhea may signal fermentative overactivity or various underlying issues. Liquid and clear manure may result from excessive grain intake, requiring prompt intervention. Granular manure may indicate sand/soil ingestion, increasing the risk of colic. Unusual colors, such as red or black, may indicate serious health problems.
Other points to consider:
Manure is just one indicator among others to assess the horse's health. Daily activity, coat appearance, intestinal sounds, breathing, hooves, hydration, urine, body temperature, and heart rate are also elements to monitor.
Manure and parasitism:
80 to 90% of parasites are found in the horse's environment, highlighting the importance of environmental management. Regular manure removal and pasture harrowing are strategies to break the parasite infestation cycle.
Manure and biodiversity:
Manure serves as food and a breeding ground for various species of flora and fauna. Excessive use of chemicals, especially dewormers, can affect biodiversity by disrupting coprophagous insects. In conclusion, the condition of manure can provide crucial indications of the overall health of the horse, and appropriate care, including environmental management and judicious use of chemicals, are essential to maintain health and biodiversity.