Every new foal carries promise, and every breeder hopes for a strong start to a foal’s life and eventual racing career. In racing, the first few hours after birth mark more than the start of life—they lay the groundwork for everything to come.
But for as many as 1 in 5 foals born in Australia each year, that start may be compromised by something that can’t be seen: a lack of immune protection known as Failure of Passive Transfer, or FPT. FPT can derail even the most promising start, putting young horses at higher risk of life-threatening infections and long-term setbacks – all because they didn’t get the immune protection needed in the first hours of life. For owners, breeders, and anyone invested in a foal’s future on the track, understanding FPT isn’t just veterinary knowledge – it’s practical, season-saving insight. And it’s easier to address than many realise.
What Is FPT?
Foals, unlike human infants, aren’t born with immunity. Because of the structure of the equine placenta, mares cannot pass antibodies to the foal before birth. Instead, immunity must be delivered via colostrum, the first milk produced in the days leading up to foaling. This colostrum contains high concentrations of immunoglobulins, or antibodies – primarily IgG – that the foal absorbs through the intestinal lining during the first 6 to 8 hours of life. By 24 hours, that absorption window closes. If a foal’s IgG levels are below 400 mg/dl at 24 hours old, the transfer is considered a failure. Between 400 and 800 mg/dl, it’s a partial failure. In either case, the foal’s ability to fight off infection is significantly compromised. It’s an invisible risk with very visible consequences.
What Causes FPT?
FPT can occur for a range of reasons—many of which aren’t immediately obvious:
Even a healthy-looking foal can quietly miss this critical window. That’s why early testing of IgG levels, ideally between 12–24 hours after birth, is so important—particularly for high-risk foals.
Why Passive Immunity Matters for Short and Long-Term Equine Health
Foals with FPT are significantly more vulnerable to conditions like septicemia, pneumonia, diarrhea, and joint infections. These aren't minor setbacks—they often lead to prolonged treatment, high veterinary costs, and in severe cases, loss of the foal entirely.
For breeders and owners focused on future racing performance, there’s also a long term goal to consider. Early infections and immune challenges can impact growth, development, and trainability—factors that shape a young horse’s racing trajectory well before they reach a track.
How Equiplas® Supports Foals at Risk
When passive immunity fails, Plasvacc’s Equiplas® equine plasma provides a proven alternative, is rich in gamma globulins, and helps raise antibody levels quickly and safely. Used by veterinarians across Australia, New Zealand, and the world, Equiplas® is:
A Simple Solution with Big Impact
Not every foal will experience FPT—but for those that do, early detection and intervention are critical. A simple blood test can guide the decision to treat, and hyperimmunised plasma therapy can provide life-saving antibodies when nature cannot.
For owners, breeders, trainers, and stud managers focused on giving young horses the strongest possible start, having a plan in place that includes early testing, plasma on hand, and fast veterinary support when needed can make all the difference. Because while racing futures are shaped over time, they often begin with a single moment of care.
We invite you to learn more about Equiplas® by visiting Plasvacc.com today. Because a strong finish starts with a healthy beginning.
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