Merck Manual

Please confirm that you are a health care professional

honeypot link
Professional Version

Overview of Diarrheal Diseases in Foals

By

Allison J. Stewart

, BVSc (Hons), PhD, DACVIM-LAIM, DACVECC, School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland

Reviewed/Revised Oct 2022

Diarrhea in foals can result from overfeeding (eg, when a foal is reunited with the mare after a period of separation) and improper nutrition (eg, orphan foals being fed calf milk replacer or sucrose). Lactose intolerance in foals is rare and can be determined by lactose tolerance challenge tests or clinical response to supplemental lactase. Diarrhea can also develop when foals consume indigestible substances such as roughage, sand, dirt, and rocks. Diarrhea in foals has been reported to be associated with infection by Strongyloides westeri, Parascaris equorum, and Cryptosporidium spp. (Also see Gastrointestinal Parasites of Horses Gastrointestinal Parasites of Horses .)

quiz link

Test your knowledge

Take a Quiz!
iOS ANDROID
iOS ANDROID
iOS ANDROID
TOP