FOAL Flashcards
What is the most common cause of diarrhea in the foal?
Rotavirus
Physical characteristics of a premature foal include all of the following
A premature foal is typically defined as a foal born before 320 days of gestation and demonstrating physical characteristics such as a short silky hair coat, soft pliant ears, laxity of the flexor tendons, a soft muzzle, and incomplete ossification of the carpal and tarsal bones. The hippomane is not part of the fetal anatomy but is the collection of cellular material and secretions found within the allantoic fluid.
A Thoroughbred foal presents with a history of lethargy, anorexia, and swollen joints. What is the most common bacterial infection associated with septicemia in foals?
The correct answer is Escherichia coli. Foals are commonly infected with enteric organisms, but particularly E. coli. Remember, E. coli is a gram negative bacterium. The major non-enteric organisms that commonly result in septicemia are Pasteurella and Actinobacillus. Streptococci, staphylococci, and enterococci can be involved too, but are usually secondary.
What condition is associated with excess dietary calcium and vitamin D in young horses?
The correct answer is osteochondrosis. Rickets and nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism are caused by calcium deficiency or excess phosphorus. Goiter is caused by insufficient or excess iodine.
Why are fluoroquinolones usually avoided when treating young foals?
Fluoroquinolones can be used in mature horses but are believed to have adverse effects on growing immature cartilage.
What is the most likely cause of dysmetria in an Arabian foal?
The correct answer is cerebellar abiotrophy. This is a condition seen primarily in Arabian foals and results in ataxia, dysmetria, head tremors (intention tremors), and hyperreflexia. Signs typically develop around 6 months of age.
