Thesis (Ph.D.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Veterinary Medicine - Department of Internal Medicine Infectious Diseases

Poor Performance refers to the inability of horses to exercise at an expected level based on their physical characteristics, genetic potential and training status. Poorly performing horses are affected by a combination of problems involving different body systems. The present studies were carried out on a total number of 95 gelding horses (45 Balady, 50 Thoroughbred), divided into two groups; group (1): jumping horses (n = 50) including 25 good performing and 25 poor performing, while group (2): working horses (n = 45) including 15 good performing considered as a control group and 30 poor performing (15 infested with theileria equi and 15 suffering from upper respiratory affections). Each horse was exposed to a comprehensive physical examination and blood samples were withdrawn on EDTA tubes for hematology, plain tubes for serum biochemistry and heparinized blood for blood gases and acid base balance. An experimental therapeutic trial using B12 aqua-acupuncture to improve performance of horses (n = 25 thoroughbred horses) was performed. Poor performing horses at risk of elevate lactate and cortisol level after exercise with increased incidence to develop metabolic acidosis which should be put into consideration as a risk factor

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