Investigation of causal factors for equine amnionitis and foetal loss

The University of Queensland

  • Project code: PRJ-000530

  • Project stage: Closed

  • Project start date: Saturday, July 1, 2006

  • Project completion date: Monday, November 24, 2008

  • National Priority: HOR-Thoroughbred diseases and parasites

Program

Thoroughbred Horses

Research Organisation

The University of Queensland

Objective Summary

1.To determine whether administration of processionary caterpillars (Ochrogaster lunifer) to pregnant mares is associated with increased risk of foetal loss and abortion. 2.To develop a laboratory animal model for use in the screening and study of agents suspected of causing abortion in horses. 3.To determine whether exposure of pregnant laboratory animals to Australian native pennyroyal (Mentha satureioides) results in increased risk of foetal loss and abortion.