In ancient times, without electricity and modern machinery, people relied on human and animal power for daily production and living. Cattle and horses were extremely strong, equivalent to several adults, so they were an important productive force that received great attention in society. Stealing and slaughtering them were considered serious crimes. We know that to gain strength, we need to consume more protein. But why do grazing cattle and horses have such great strength?
In fact, although cattle and horses eat grass, there are also many nutrients in grass. To fully absorb these nutrients, their digestive tracts have evolved into very long tubes. In addition, herbivores like cattle and horses have a special ability to break down cellulose that carnivores cannot digest, thereby producing glucose, an energy substance necessary for movement. With this, they can continuously generate energy through respiration.
Of course, the bodies of cattle and horses are much larger than those of humans. If humans were to squat on all fours like them, they would find a huge gap between the two. Take water buffaloes for example. An adult water buffalo weighs half a ton, and the largest ones can weigh over a ton, which is equivalent to nearly 20 adults. Therefore, it's only natural that their strength far exceeds that of humans. Just take a look at one of their bones, and you'll be convinced of this.