J. Anim Sci.
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J. Anim Sci. 1978. 46:1666-1672.
© 1978 American Society of Animal Science
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Methods for Measuring Physical Condition and Energy Expenditure in Horses

D. J. Burke1 and W. W. Albert2

University of Illinois, Urbana 61801

Abstract

Methods for determining oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production (respiratory quotient), heart rates and heart recovery rates, and muscle lactic acid production adapted from human studies were evaluated for measurement of energy expenditure and physical condition in horses. Standard metabolic rate (SMR) and energy use of two weanling ponies were determined by indirect calorimetry in a metabolism chamber to test the adequacy of the apparatus to be used on exercising animals. Ponies of 55 and 68 kg had calculated SMR's of 60.49 and 71.06 Kcal/hr, compared to measured values of 63.51 and 72.28 kcal/hr, respectively. Chamber values for oxygen consumption ranged from 11,54 to 33.30 liter/hr and RQ values were within an acceptable range, from .77 to 1.77. O2 consumption values obtained on exercising animals with a specially designed face mask ranged from 50.76 liter/min before exercise to 401.40 liter/min after a 1/2 hr trot, with RQ range from .55 to 1.56. Resting heart rate tended to decrease and recovery rate to increase through training. Muscle lactic acid concentration increased from approximately 5 µg/g of muscle at rest to 9.12, 10.86 and 16.51 µg/g for 1/2 hr, 1 hr, and 1 1/4 hr bouts of walking, respectively. Lactic acid concentration after 1/4 hr and 1/2 hr bouts of trotting decreased to .30 and .50 µg/g.

Footnotes

1 Current address: 106 Stock Pavilion, Urbana, IL 61801.

1 Current address: 104 Stock Pavilion, Urbana, IL 61801.






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