Nutrient Needs and Body Condition Scoring in Animals

These flashcards cover key concepts of nutrient needs and body condition scoring in animals, including definitions and descriptions of various scores.

Maintenance

The basic needs of the animal to maintain constant weight and temperature.

Lactation

The process of producing milk, which requires high levels of water, protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals.

Body Condition Score (BCS)

A scoring system to assess the amount of fat on an animal's body, ranging from 1 (Poor) to 9 (Extremely Fat).

SCORE 1 – POOR

Characterized by extreme emaciation; no fatty tissue felt, ribs protruding prominently.

SCORE 2 – VERY THIN

Emaciated appearance with prominent ribs and vertebrae, faintly noticeable bone structure.

SCORE 4 – MODERATELY THIN

Faint outline of ribs discernible, fat can be felt around the tailhead.

SCORE 5 - MODERATE

Back is level; ribs cannot be visually distinguished but can be felt; fat around tailhead feels spongy.

SCORE 6 – MODERATE TO FLESHY

May have slight crease down the back; fat over ribs feels soft and spongy.

SCORE 8 - FAT

Crease down back; difficult to feel ribs; fat around tailhead and withers is soft.

Optimal Body Condition Score

The ideal condition score for each horse varies based on breed and occupation, with specific targets for broodmares, breeding stallions, and performance horses.