Comparative Evaluation of Domestic Hot-air-Dried Italian Ryegrass and Imported Timothy Hay as Forage Sources for Riding Horses: Effects on Body Condition and Blood Biochemical Profile

초록

Forage is essential for the health and growth of horses. However, most forage in South Korea is imported, which increases costs and raises quality concerns. Frequent declines in overseas forage production due to climate instability have further destabilized supply and underscored the need for reliable domestic forage sources. This study evaluated the effects of domestically produced hot-air-dried Italian ryegrass (IRG) hay on the body condition and blood biochemical profiles of riding horses and compared these effects with those of imported timothy hay. Ten thoroughbreds were divided into two groups and fed either hot-air-dried IRG hay or timothy hay for 12 weeks. Chest girth, body weight, body condition score, and blood biochemical profiles were measured. Results showed no significant differences in body condition scores. However, horses in the IRG-fed group tended to show slight increases in chest girth and body weight despite elevated summer temperatures. Blood metabolite concentrations fluctuated during the trial period but did not differ significantly between treatments. These findings suggest that domestically produced IRG provides comparable value to timothy hay for maintaining body condition and physiological status, and might serve as a practical alternative to imported forages.

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