Why do horses have so much muscle when all they eat is grass and hay?

It's a great question! While horses do primarily eat grass and hay, which are mostly carbohydrates, they are incredibly efficient at converting those carbohydrates into energy and muscle mass. Here's how:

* Efficient Digestion: Horses have a long digestive tract specially designed for breaking down tough plant fibers. They have a large cecum, which houses beneficial bacteria that ferment the plant material, extracting nutrients that other animals might miss.

* High-Quality Feed: While grass and hay are primarily carbohydrates, they also contain essential vitamins, minerals, and protein that contribute to muscle growth.

* Natural Exercise: Horses are designed for movement. Their daily grazing and foraging activities provide ample exercise, stimulating muscle development and maintaining their fitness.

* Evolutionary Adaptation: Over millions of years, horses have evolved to be strong and agile, with powerful muscles for running and carrying weight. Their diet and lifestyle have played a key role in shaping their impressive physique.

It's important to note: While horses can build impressive muscle on a grass and hay diet, they still require proper nutrition and regular exercise to maintain optimal health and performance. Factors like breed, age, workload, and even the quality of their hay can influence their muscle development.