Microbiological pathogens in fecal samples of foals during the first year of life

In general, the examined pathogens showed an age dependent occurrence, but infections in foals outside of the common age group could not be ruled out with certainty due to small sample numbers in some of the age groups. Although Rotavirus A was the most prevalent pathogen in this study, <i>netF</i>-producing <i>Cl. perfringens</i> is an important differential diagnosis, especially in newborn foals. The diagnostic approach in diarrheic foals should contain a broad spectrum of pathogens. This is not only important to detect coinfections, but also to detect shedders, in order to protect other horses in the stable.