The influence of age and gender on haematological parameters in Lipizzan horses.

The research article investigates the relationship between age, gender, and haematological parameters – specifically focused on red and white blood cells, and various other parameters – in Lipizzan horses.

Objective of the Research

• The research aimed at determining how age and gender influence different haematological parameters, which are: Red blood cell (RBC) count, white blood cell (WBC) count, packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin concentration, mean cell volume (MCV), mean cell haemoglobin (MCH), and mean cell haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) in Lipizzan horses. In total, these parameters were studied among 143 stallions, 104 mares, and 25 foals.

Key Findings

• It was found that the mean values for RBC and WBC in Lipizzan horses were at the lower end of the normal range for warm-blooded horses, whereas PCV, MCV, and MCH were higher than average.
• Additionally, the mean haemoglobin concentration and MCHC values were lower than what has been reported for other warm-blooded horses.
• In the case of foals, the mean values for RBC, WBC, PCV, haemoglobin concentration, and MCHC were higher, while MCV and MCH were lower than in older horses.
• The results displayed a significant decrease in WBC and an increase in MCV, MCH, and MCHC with increasing age, mirroring some other reports on warm-blooded horses. The age-related variations in RBC and PCV were less noticeable.
• Contrary to some studies, it was found that RBC, WBC, and haemoglobin concentration were higher in Lipizzan stallions than in mares. But no significant differences were observed in MCHC, MCH, and MCV between the two sexes.

Implications of the Findings

• The specific haematological values derived from this study on Lipizzans suggest a certain effect of selection and indicate the need to consider these unique parameters when dealing with this breed of horses.