"Horse" - what is it, definition of the term
An equine mammal (Equus ferus caballus) is a large, herbivorous ungulate distinguished by a single hoof on each limb, a long head, and a muscular, sturdy build; it has been domesticated for millennia to serve in transportation, agricultural labor, competitive disciplines, and selective breeding programs.
Detailed information
The domestic equine is a large, herbivorous mammal belonging to the family Equidae. Adult individuals typically stand 1.4–1.7 m at the withers, weigh 380–1 000 kg, and possess a single solid hoof on each limb. Muscular limbs and a highly developed cardiovascular system enable sustained galloping speeds of up to 70 km/h. Vision is panoramic, with a broad field of view and a narrow blind spot directly behind the head. The digestive tract includes a fermentative caecum and a large hindgut, allowing efficient breakdown of fibrous grasses and hay.
Reproductive biology features a seasonal estrous cycle, with gestation lasting approximately 340 days. A single foal is born after parturition, weighing 30–50 kg. Neonates develop precocially, standing and nursing within hours. Lifespan in managed care averages 25–30 years, with some individuals exceeding 40 years.
Health management must address ectoparasitic infestations. Common external parasites include:
- Ticks – arachnids that attach to the skin, feed on blood, and may transmit bacterial pathogens such as Borrelia spp.
- Bugs – biting insects (e.g., horseflies, stable flies) that cause dermal irritation and can introduce wound infections.
- Lice – chewing insects that inhabit the mane, tail, and coat, leading to pruritus, alopecia, and secondary dermatitis.
- Fleas – small, jumping insects that feed on blood and may act as vectors for tapeworms and other parasites.
Effective control strategies comprise regular grooming, environmental sanitation, and targeted chemical treatments. Insecticidal pour‑on preparations, systemic ivermectin, and topical pyrethroids are commonly employed. Rotation of active ingredients reduces resistance development. Monitoring for signs such as localized swelling, excessive scratching, or visible parasites enables timely intervention.
Nutritional requirements emphasize high‑quality forage, supplemented with concentrates to meet energy demands during work or growth phases. Essential minerals include calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and trace elements like copper and selenium. Balanced rations support skeletal integrity, muscle development, and immune competence, thereby reducing susceptibility to parasitic disease.