Malton Equine Veterinary Services
Foal Medicine
Plasma Transfusion
Plasma Transfusion
Understanding IgG Levels: Ensuring Vital Immunity for Newborn Foals.
IgG, or immunoglobulin G, is a crucial marker in assessing the immunity status of newborn foals. A low IgG reading is indicative of an insufficient transfer of immunity from the mare’s colostrum to the foal. This situation becomes more likely if the foal faces challenges in nursing, encounters difficulties in accessing the mare’s colostrum, or if the colostrum itself is of poor quality. Factors such as the mare losing milk before foaling can also contribute to a reduced transfer of essential antibodies.
Recognizing the pivotal role of adequate immunity in the early stages of a foal’s life, our veterinary care includes thorough monitoring of IgG levels. In cases where a deficiency is identified, particularly if the foal is more than 18 hours old when the gut wall stops absorbing colostral antibodies, we may recommend a hyperimmune plasma transfusion. This procedure ensures that the foal receives the necessary immunity boost, compensating for any gaps in colostrum intake and providing vital antibodies crucial for disease resistance and overall health. By addressing immunity concerns through careful monitoring and appropriate interventions, we strive to give each foal the best possible start in life.
Emergency veterinary attention for your horse may be required at any time of the day or night. We provide veterinary care 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to registered clients.
Foal Medicine
A prompt examination of the newborn foal within the first couple of days is a critical step in ensuring their well-being and addressing potential issues that may arise during foaling.
Neonatal (newborn) foal examination
IgG, or immunoglobulin G, is a crucial marker in assessing the immunity status of newborn foals. A low IgG reading is indicative of an insufficient transfer of immunity from the mare's colostrum to the foal.
Plasma Transfusion
Limb deformities, whether in the form of flexural (contracted tendons) or angular (valgus/varus - toe-in/toe-out) issues, are not uncommon in newborn foals.
Assessment of limb conformation
Entropion, the inward rolling of the lower eyelid, is a condition that, when left unaddressed, can adversely impact the ocular health of foals.
Management of entropion
Routine chest scanning for foals is a proactive and essential component of our equine veterinary care, especially considering the common occurrence of pneumonia in foals.
Routine chest scanning
Umbilical or inguinal hernias are conditions commonly encountered in foals, often manifesting within the first three months of life.
Management of hernias
In compliance with current regulations, it is now a legal requirement for all horses to be microchipped by six months of age, underscoring the importance of precise identification within the equine community.
Identification and microchipping for passports
In our commitment to ensuring the optimal health and well-being of your equine companion, we adhere rigorously to the latest advancements in equine health practices.
Advice on worming and vaccination
Newborn foals are immunologically naive and particularly vulnerable, necessitating specialized care to ensure their health and well-being.