Equine Reproduction

Question 1

What is the most common cause of abortion in horses?

Answer 1

Bacterial infection

Question 2

What is the most common NON-INFECTIOUS cause of abortion in horses?

Answer 2

Twin pregnancy

Question 3

Placentitis can lead to abortion. What are the clinical signs of placentitis in horses?

Answer 3

Premature mammary development and lactation

Question 4

How do you treat placentitis in horses?

Answer 4

1. NSAIDs - to reduce prostaglandins in foetal fluid and prevent abortion
2. Antibiotics - placentitis commonly due to bacterial infection.
3. Synthetic progestagens (altrenogest) - maintains quiescence of the uterus

Question 5

What blood tube should you use when assessing mare hormones?

Answer 5

Plain red-top vacutainer

Question 6

Outline what further diagnostics you want to perform when assessing a mare with suspected placentitis (premature mammary development and lactation)?

Answer 6

1. Vaginal examination using a speculum + guarded swab for culture
2. Trans-rectal ultrasonography to assess foal and placenta
3. Bloods to assess mare hormones for foetal distress (plain red top vacutainer)

Question 7

Racehorses and broodmares should be vaccinated for EHV-1 and EHV-4. Outline the vaccination protocol for broodmares.

Answer 7

Broodmares should be vaccinated against EHV-1 and EHV-4 in the 5th, 7th, and 9th month of gestation