Correctly fed weanlings achieve greater gains in whither height and deposit less fat. Bone and joint development must be protected during the first 12 months by controlling body condition. Muscle development will not be affected as it continues well beyond the yearling stage.

• BONE : growth potential is achieved from 3 months before birth 12 months of age – MITAVITE STUDGRO provides the nutrients.
• MUSCLE: fibre size and number increases by 70% between 7 and 18 months of age, continuing until 2 years of age. Muscle mass affects maximal force output - failure to meet potential at the yearling stage reduces ultimate stride length and acceleration. MITAVITE STUDGRO supplies the amino acids.

• Power-to-weight ratio and soundness require correct nutrition at critical growth periods.
• Hormonal factors and OCD : The type of feed used on a stud is strongly correlated with the incidence of OCD through the effect on blood glucose and hormone levels. Steam-extruded feeds cause smaller changes in blood glucose and insulin levels than sweet feeds.

Genetics set the ultimate limit to performance, nutrition determines how closely a horse approaches that limit.