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Mare Reproductive Loss Syndrome
Recommendations from Kentucky Association of Equine Practitioners
May 16, 2001
To: Kentucky Association of Equine Practitioners
From: KAEP Emerging Disease Committee
Re: Mare Reproductive Loss Syndrome
Based on scientific and diagnostic results available to date, the following are suggestions for veterinarians to discuss with their clients based on a valid veterinary-client-patient relationship. This is subject to change based on updates from scientific results.
1. Keep accurate records on early fetal losses, late term abortions, stillbirths and foals which fail to thrive.
2. For these and normal deliveries, collect one ounce of manure from the mare in a latex glove and one fecal cup (3 oz.) of grain concentrate fed to the mare. Have these samples frozen by the farm immediately. They should then be delivered frozen to the Livestock Disease Diagnostic Laboratory to the attention of Dr. Kyle Newman. Information should include the date, mare’s name, farm, veterinarian, and brief history of the mare, including medications and supplements (brand names).
For the late term pregnant mares, consider:
-domperidoneFor early pregnancies (2001 breedings), consider:
-mycotoxin binders according to manufacturer’s guidelines
-probiotics
-clip pastures to eliminate seed heads but not so low as to hinder growth (Do not scalp pastures!)
-mycotoxin binders according to manufacturer’s guidelinesPractitioners may want to consider the use of domperidone after discussing with clients. No research has been performed to evaluate efficacy or safety in this stage of gestation.
-probiotics
-clip pastures to eliminate seed heads but not so low as to hinder growth (Do not scalp pastures!)
Diligent attention should be paid to early fetal loss mares that you plan to re-breed. Careful ultrasound examination of the ovaries and assessment of progesterone levels prior to breeding is critical. PMSG levels are of little value in selecting rebreeding candidates.
A recent increase in clinical cases of pericarditis has been noted in central Kentucky. These cases are non-septic effusions in which the etiology has not been identified. The condition has not been identified to be caused by mycotoxin, however, the possibility exists.
Non-specific clinical signs of pericarditis include:
-depressionMore specific signs include:
-lethargy
-poor appetite
-+/- fever
-jugular pulseUltrasonographic interpretation is diagnostic.
-tachycardia
-muffled heart sounds
-+/- pericardial friction rubs
