obtunded foal

What are the presenting signs of an obtunded foal?

Obtunded – decreased mentation but responsive to visual and auditory stimuli.

What does the term stuporus indicate in foals?

Only responsive to painful stimuli.

What is a key sign of a foal in a comatose state?

Unresponsive to painful stimuli.

What can pale mucous membranes/icterus indicate in foals?

Neonatal isoerythrolysis.

What are some clinical examination parameters to check in obtunded foals?

TPR and MM colour.

What IgG level indicates a complete failure of passive transfer in foals?

<400 mg/L.

What can cause obtunded foals and seizures if not nursed?

Hyponatraemia.

What does increased blood lactate indicate in neonatal foals?

Severe disease.

What might leukopenia and neutropenia indicate in a foal?

Neonatal isoerythrolysis.

What immediate management approach is recommended for suspected septic foals?

SEPTIC UNTIL PROVEN OTHERWISE – give antibiotics and IV fluid therapy.

What should you do if a foal is at high risk of sepsis or is already septic?

Check renal function before choosing antibiotics.

What treatment may be necessary for foals with neonatal maladjustment syndrome?

Intensive care and supportive care.

What is a critical early prevention step for foals at risk of neonatal isoerythrolysis?

Prevent nursing if <24 hours old, and provide colostrum from another mare.

What conditions can lead to sepsis in neonatal foals?

Enteritis, pneumonia, uroabdomen.

What are risk factors for an abnormal neonatal foal?

Dystocia, concurrent dam illness, prematurity, poor bonding.