Which nutrient is primarily responsible for muscle development in horses?

Proteins play a critical role in muscle development for horses due to their composition of amino acids—the building blocks necessary for the repair and growth of muscle tissues. When horses engage in activities like training, their muscle fibers can experience stress and minor damage, necessitating a supply of protein to facilitate recovery and promote growth.

Additionally, proteins are essential for producing hormones, enzymes, and other body components that contribute to overall health and performance. Inadequate protein intake can lead to poor muscle development, decreased performance, and overall reduced health in horses. Other nutrients, such as carbohydrates and fats, serve important roles in providing energy and supporting overall bodily functions, but they do not directly contribute to muscle synthesis and repair in the same way proteins do. Vitamins also support various bodily functions but are not directly responsible for muscle development.