* Mouth: The horse uses its lips to gather grass and hay. Its teeth are adapted for grinding tough plant material. The tongue helps maneuver food and ensures it's swallowed properly.
* Esophagus: The esophagus is a muscular tube that transports food from the mouth to the stomach.
* Stomach: The stomach begins the process of digestion. While smaller than a cow's stomach, it still plays a role in breaking down food.
* Small Intestine: The small intestine is the primary site of nutrient absorption. Here, enzymes break down food further, and the horse's body absorbs essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and sugars.
* Large Intestine: The large intestine is responsible for absorbing water and creating waste.
* Rectum: The rectum stores waste until it is expelled from the body.
Other Important Parts:
* Nose: Horses smell their food to determine its quality and safety.
* Eyes: Horses use their eyes to locate food sources.
In Summary:
The horse's entire digestive system, from its mouth to its rectum, works together to extract nutrients from the food it eats.