Mammary Gland Secretion pH and Impending Parturition in Ponies and Mares with and without Firocoxib

The prediction of equine parturition is imprecise and gestation lengths vary. Mammary gland secretion pH has been examined and commercial pH strips are easy to use. Previous studies did show a correlation to pH value and parturition, but there were differences as to what pH value was critical. We measured the pH of udder secretions in near term mares and ponies using only test strips. We hypothesized that the change in pH will be a strong indicator of impending parturition. Our first objective was to use commercially available pH paper to demonstrate pH change within 24-72 hours of parturition.

Source: Journal of Equine Veterinary Science - June 23, 2018 Category: Veterinary Research Authors: J.T. Hayna, S.R. Randell, C.A. Burden, M.A. Pozor, S.A. Benson, A.A. Kelleman, S. Gigu ère, M.L. Macpherson Source Type: research