Nutritional requirements of various animals

Herbivores (e.g. rabbits, horses, cows)

Require a high fibre diet to maintain digestive health.
Main diet includes forage like hay, silage, and pastured grasses.
Vitamins and minerals may be needed to supplement the diet.
Ruminants like cows have a specialised digestive system to extract nutrients from plant-based diets.
Always monitor weight and condition of the animal to regulate diet.

Carnivores (e.g. lions, tigers, domestic cats)

Thrive on a high protein and fat diet derived from animal material.
Certain commercially prepared diets contain all necessary nutrients.
Owing to a highly acidic stomach, they are capable of digesting raw meat.
Supplements may be required for animals on a raw or home-prepared diet.
Portion sizes and meal frequency should be monitored.

Omnivores (e.g. pigs, bears, humans)

Require a balanced intake of plants, seeds, fruit, insects and meat.
Commercially prepared omnivorous diets can be provided to animals in care.
Growth, reproduction, health, and activity level can affect dietary requirements.
Regular monitoring is necessary to maintain an optimal health status of the animal.

Insectivores (e.g. hedgehogs, some birds, frogs)

The main source of nutrition is a variety of insects.
The diet can be supplemented with other foods depending on the species.
Careful monitoring is required as overfeeding and obesity are common issues.

Aquatic Animals (e.g. fish, turtles)

Majority have specific diets ranging from algae to other aquatic organisms.
Commercially prepared diets are usually suitable, but some may require live prey.
Water quality and temperature can significantly impact nutrition absorption and digestion.
Precautions must be taken to avoid overfeeding, leading to poor water quality.

Birds

Their nutritional requirements vary greatly among species.
Diets are usually a combination of seeds, insects, fruits, and nectar.
Certain species require a high protein diet while others need nectar-based diets.
Always provide clean, fresh water.
Monitor bird’s weight, behaviour and fecal consistency regularly for health assessment.

In sum, a clear understanding of specific species nutritional needs is key when planning diets. It’s also important to understand the various developmental stages, as the nutritional needs of an animal change from infancy to adulthood and senior stages. Regular monitoring and assessment will help optimise the diet and overall welfare of any animal.