Abstract
(1) In this study, we investigated the effects of dietary supplementation with Lactobacillus rhamnosus and compound probiotics on the growth performance and microbiota structure of suckling Ili horse foals (aged 1 month; average weight 69.83 ± 13.76 kg). (2) At d 0, d 30, d 60 and d 90 of the regular feeding period, the weights of the foals were recorded, blood samples were obtained from the jugular vein and feces were collected by rectal extraction for the determination of microbial diversity and fermentation parameters. (3) The results showed that dietary supplementation with Lactobacillus rhamnosus and compound probiotics in 1-month-old suckling foals affected the production of volatile fatty acids in the intestine by changing the composition and abundance of intestinal microorganisms, promoting the digestion and absorption of nutrients, enhancing the level of nutrient metabolism and immunity to promote growth performance. (4) In conclusion, dietary supplementation with Lactobacillus rhamnosus and compound probiotics has a time-dependent positive effect on the growth performance of suckling foals.