Colostrum transfer in foals

Joint infections, pneumonia, navel ill, and diarrhoea are common problems affecting foals in the first 8-10 weeks of their life.  The majority of these conditions occur because foals receive inadequate levels of colostrum (or first milk) in the first few hours of birth. Colostrum is very rich in antibodies that provide the foal with vital protection against the above infections.  If a mare runs milk prior to foaling the quality of the colostrum and the antibodies it contains is a lot lower.  Foals can be easily tested for the amount of colostral antibody transfer by a simple blood test taken when the foal is between 36-48 hours old.
Many insurance companies will require an IgG test to be undertaken before they will insure a new foal.

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The material contained in this website is presented for information purposes only . The material is in no way intended to replace professional veterinary care or attention from a professional veterinary surgeon. 

The advice given in any of our web pages cannot be used as the basis for a diagnosis or choice of treatment.

Clyde Vet Group advises that you should always consult a veterinary surgeon about any queries with animals under your care.