Article View

Equine welfare is a complex topic that relies on the physical, nutritional, social, and psychological needs of horses, and all of these are directly influenced by the daily management practices applied. The current study examines the effects of housing, feeding, and management approaches on the welfare of horses in general, drawing on recent scientific literature, welfare assessment models, and evidence from equine science. The design of stables, ventilation, bedding, turnout schedules, and opportunities to exercise natural behaviours are all features of housing conditions that greatly influence stress levels, locomotor patterns, and the incidence of musculoskeletal or respiratory problems. All of them, such as digestive health, metabolic balance, and stereotype development, are significantly affected by feeding methods, including fodder availability, feeding frequency, diet balance, and the extent to which these methods align with natural grazing behaviour. This question is based on the Five Domains Model and the concept of animal-centred care. It is holistic in its investigation of how the three fundamental areas of management relate to equine well-being outcomes. The study's findings demonstrate that management techniques that encourage natural behaviour, ensure access to fibre-rich forage at all times, reduce social isolation, and employ low-stress handling methods have a dramatic impact on welfare outcomes. On the other hand, keeping an animal in a small space, feeding it a diet high in concentrates, and treating it unpleasantly are all factors that may increase the likelihood of the animal developing behavioural disorders, physiological stress, and health issues. The study indicates that management conducive to animal welfare requires evidence-based, integrated tactics that prioritise behavioural needs, nutritional balance, and the establishment of healthy interactions between humans and horses. The recommendations emphasise the utility of welfare assessment methods, the enhancement of caretaker training, and the introduction of management changes in equine institutions to enable humane and sustainable care for horses.