Equine gestational length and location: is there more that the research could be telling us?
Abstract: Clear definitions of 'normal' equine gestation length (GL) are elusive, with GL being subject to a considerable number of internal and external variables that have confounded interpretation and estimation of GL for over 50 years. Consequently, the mean GL of 340 days first established by Rossdale in 1967 for Thoroughbred horses in northern Europe continues to be the benchmark value referenced by veterinarians, breeders and researchers worldwide. Application of a 95% confidence limit to reported GL range values indicates a possible connection between geographic location and GL. Improved knowledge of this variable may help in assessing the degree of the neonate's prematurity and dysmaturity at or soon after birth, and identification of conditions such as incomplete ossification of the carpal and tarsal bones. Associated pathologies such as bone malformation and fracture, angular limb deformity and degenerative joint disease can cause chronic unsoundness, rendering horses unsuitable for athletic purpose and shortening ridden careers. This review will examine both the factors contributing to GL variation and the published data to determine whether there is potential to refine our understanding of GL by establishing a more accurate and regionally relevant GL range based on a 95% confidence limit. This may benefit both equine industry economics and equine welfare by improving early identification of skeletally immature neonates, so that appropriate intervention may be considered.
© 2017 Australian Veterinary Association.
Publication Date: 2017-12-16 PubMed ID: 29243234DOI: 10.1111/avj.12653Google Scholar: Lookup
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Summary
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This research article investigates the variables affecting the gestation length (GL) in horses with a potential geographical location correlation. It also assesses the possibility of refining the understanding of GL based on a regionally relevant range, which could benefit equine welfare and the horse industry.
Current Understanding of Equine Gestation Length
- One of the key points the article grapples with is the lack of a clear definition of ‘normal’ equine gestation length (GL), which refers to the period during which a horse is pregnant before giving birth. This ambiguity has challenged veterinarians, breeders, and researchers for over half a century.
- At present, the standard GL for Thoroughbred horses—set in 1967 in northern Europe at 340 days—is still universally used despite the acknowledgment of numerous internal and external variables that can affect GL.
Geographic Connection to Gestation Length
- One of the major findings of this research article is the possible correlation between geographic location and equine GL. By applying a statistical method known as the 95% confidence limit to the various reported GLs, the researchers identified potential links to geographical location.
- The implication of this finding means that there might be a need to revise the accepted GL norms based on geographic regions or climates.
Impacts on Equine Health and Industry
- The study’s refined understanding of GL could aid veterinarians and breeders in evaluating a neonate horse’s level of maturity or potential health issues at or shortly after birth. This information is essential for identifying conditions like incomplete ossification of bones, malformation, fractures, and other pathologies.
- These conditions often lead to chronic health problems, reducing the horse’s suitability for athletic purposes, shortening its ridden career, and ultimately impacting its welfare and the equine industry economically.
- Using a more regionally relevant GL range based on a 95% confidence limit could significantly improve the early detection of skeletally immature neonates, benefiting both equine welfare and the economics of the equine industry.
Cite This Article
APA
Clothier J, Hinch G, Brown W, Small A.
(2017).
Equine gestational length and location: is there more that the research could be telling us?
Aust Vet J, 95(12), 454-461.
https://doi.org/10.1111/avj.12653 Publication
Researcher Affiliations
- CSIRO Agriculture, FD McMaster Laboratory, New England Highway, Armidale, New South Wales, Australia.
- School of Environmental and Rural Sciences, University of New England, NSW, Australia.
- School of Environmental and Rural Sciences, University of New England, NSW, Australia.
- School of Environmental and Rural Sciences, University of New England, NSW, Australia.
- CSIRO Agriculture, FD McMaster Laboratory, New England Highway, Armidale, New South Wales, Australia.
MeSH Terms
- Animals
- Animals, Newborn
- Female
- Gestational Age
- Horses / physiology
- Pregnancy
- Pregnancy, Animal / physiology
- Research
- Sex Factors
- Time
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