Reproduction Flashcards
Reproduction Type
Seasonally Polyestrus
* only get pregnant during certain times of year (spring and summer)
* stop going into heat in fall
* winter is a transitional period
* return to estrus depends on day length
Artificial Light
(estrus)
- Shortens transitional period
- Allows for early breeding season
- Start use in December
Gestation
- Length: 11 months, 11 days
- Diagnose 15 days post breeding, confirm 30-45 days
Vaccinations During Pregnancy
- Rabies vaccine not approved
- Annual vaccines should be given 1 month before foaling (birth) - boosts IgG levels in colostrum
- Vaccinate for Herpes virus at 5, 7, and 9 months gestation - virus can cause abortion
Red Bag
* emergency situation
* blood supply to foal via placenta is compromised
* oxygen supply reduced - can result in brain damage
* need to cut membrane, remove foal, and clear nostrils to allow oxygen flow
Normal Birth Presentation
- Sac is clear
- Front feet first, staggered
- Nose followed
Failure of Passive Transfer
Occurs when foal does not receive protective antibodies from colostrum
* snap test performed with blood (IgG)
* goal: >800
* failure = <400
Failure of Passive Transfer
Treatment
- IV administration of plasma
- Repeat snap test until normal
Failure of Passive Transfer
Causes
- Inadequate intake by foal due to illness
- Poor colostrum quality
- Premature lactation (colostrum drips out prior to foaling)
Angular Limb Deformities
Front legs aren’t straight
* Valgus vs Varus
Valgus
* legs slant laterally (outward) below carpus
Varus
* legs slant medially (inward) below carpus
Tendon Contracture
* too tight
Laxity
* too loose
Meconium
First feces passed
* yellow in color
* sticky
* can be impaction or constipation
* diarrhea is abnormal
