If you've ever wanted to burrow under the covers instead of deal with frigid temperatures, you're not alone – your pony may feel the same way!
Researchers at the University of Göttingen studied metabolic changes in 10 Shetland ponies fed different diets in various weather conditions, reports EQUUS magazine.
For the winter portion of their study, the scientists fed the ponies a diet that met all of their maintenance requirements. They then split the ponies into two groups: one group continued to receive their full ration and the other group had their rations cut to 60 percent of their energy requirements.
The scientists monitored the pony's metabolic rates through vital signs and bloodwork, and found that the ponies which didn't receive the diet that met their energy requirements were able to lower their metabolic rate, which allowed them to conserve energy. The ponies' body temperatures also dropped, which compensated for the decrease in energy supply. Both of these mechanisms allowed the ponies to minimize the loss of energy stores.
Read more EQUUS magazine.
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