Friesian Horses Show Differences in Some Blood Values

According to research carried out by scientists at the University of Wisconsin and The Fenway Foundation for Friesian Horses, equines of this breed tend to have complete blood count and blood chemistry numbers that may vary somewhat from those found in mature horses of other breeds.

Of the 127 Friesian horses included in the sample, blood glucose levels were lower in 21 horses (16.5%) compared to equines of other breeds. Other values that were out of line with the average horse population were hemoglobin, red blood cell count, hematocrit, and level of lactate dehydrogenase.

Taking these differences into account could help veterinarians and horse owners better understand diagnosis and treatment of some health conditions in Friesian horses.