Effect of prolonged use of altrenogest on behaviour in mares.

This research article studies the impact of long-term use of altrenogest, a commonly used compound for suppressing oestrus in competition horses, on their behavior, social hierarchy, body mass, and general condition. The study found that the consistent dosage of altrenogest over an eight-week period had no significant effects in any of these areas.

Objective of the Study

• The objective of this study was to examine the effects of a commonly used compound in equestrian disciplines, altrenogest, on various facets of horse wellbeing, including their social behavior, activity levels, body mass, and overall body condition score.

Study Methodology

• The researchers looked into the effects of orally-administered altrenogest on these parameters. Altrenogest was given daily, at a dosage of 0.044 mg/kg, to a sample set of 12 sedentary mares for eight weeks.
• Sedentary mares in this context refer to horses that are not actively engaged in regular physical work or competition.

Results of the Study

• The research concluded that the prolonged use of altrenogest at the suggested dosage did not result in any notable changes in the horses’ social dominance hierarchies.
• The body mass and overall condition scores of the mares did not vary significantly over the duration of the treatment with altrenogest.
• Additionally, the treatment did not appear to have any performance-enhancing or anabolic effects that would unfairly advantage a horse in a competition setting.

Significance of Research Findings

• These findings seem to suggest that altrenogest, when used to suppress oestrus in competition horses, does not detriment or enhance the physical or social welfare of the horse.
• This study could have significant implications for the wider equestrian industry, particularly in the realms of competition regulations and equine doping rules.
• Further, it could shape guidelines related to the long-term usage of altrenogest in horses, considering it does not appear to damage or disadvantage their wellbeing or performance in any significant way.