Body Condition Scoring the Donkey

Body condition scoring (BCS) is important as it provides an early indication of under or over nourished donkeys. Condition scoring in the donkey is different to their close relatives, the horse, because fat is stored in different locations on the body. Visual appearance can be deceptive and therefore a more hands-on approach is required, it is also important to be aware that woolly coats can mask the true BCS.