Provender

Provender refers to food, typically dry fodder, for livestock, especially animals like horses, cattle, and sheep. It can encompass grains, hay, and other dried substances. It's crucial for sustaining the health and energy of these animals, particularly during periods when fresh grazing is unavailable, such as winter months or during long journeys. The quality and nutritional value of the provender directly impact the animals' well-being, work performance, and overall productivity, making it a vital component of animal husbandry.

Provender meaning with examples

• The farmer diligently prepared the provender for his horses before the harsh winter set in, ensuring they had a sufficient supply of hay and oats to survive the cold months. He made sure the provender was of the highest quality to maintain their strength.
• During the drought, the rancher faced a shortage of provender for his cattle. He had to source supplemental feed from distant suppliers to keep his herd from starving, causing a financial strain on the operation and leading to difficult decision-making.
• The caravan leader packed substantial quantities of provender for the pack animals before embarking on the long desert trek. He knew the success of their journey depended on the animals' ability to endure the trip, reliant on this feed.
• The stable hands replenished the mangers with fresh provender daily, carefully mixing a combination of grains and chopped hay to provide a balanced diet for the racehorses, a staple of their regimen.