Monogastrics (horses and pigs) have
a more linear digestive system than
ruminants. In monogastrics the “hind
gut” of the intestines absorbs most of
the nutrients, which is much less efficient
than ruminant digestion. Horses
are modified monogastrics. They have a
cecum, or fermentation organ, between
the small and large intestine that further
processes forages and improves nutrient
absorption.