Study of racehorses’ poo predicts future track success
“Gut health is absolutely critical,” said lead researcher Chris Proudman, a professor of clinical veterinary science at the University of Surrey.
“There is a growing understanding that what happens in human guts and in animal guts – horses, in this case – has a profound influence on many aspects of health and disease.”
“It’s also about timing,” he explained. “The nature of the gut bacteria in those first few weeks of life predicts the future health, and the future performance, of these horses.”
Young racehorses provide veterinary scientists with an ideal opportunity for studying the gut.
Breeders and trainers of thoroughbred foals typically keep highly detailed records of each animal’s birth, diet and health, as well as any veterinary care they receive.
“Anything we can investigate – to help them be in as good shape as possible – is a really good opportunity for us,” said Jane Black, co-owner of Chasemore stud farm in Surrey, which bred some of the foals involved in the research.
