Racehorses’ Gut Microbiome Impact on Health and Performance
Research indicates that racehorses exhibit enhanced performance and reduced health complications when they have a diverse gut microbiome during their early developmental stages.
This study highlights the critical role the gut microbiome plays in the long-term health and athletic fitness of horses, paralleling similar findings in humans.
Researchers conducted DNA sequencing on fecal samples from 52 Thoroughbred foals across five stud farms, collecting samples at various stages of their first year, including at 2, 8, 14, 28 days, and 2, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. Upon reaching one year, these foals were relocated to 29 different race training centers throughout the UK.
Performance metrics—including race finishing positions and total prize money—were meticulously tracked as the horses competed in various races at ages 2 and 3. The study also monitored their respiratory and orthopedic health, along with soft tissue condition.
Findings revealed that higher bacterial diversity at 28 days old correlated with improved racing outcomes. Notably, two specific families of bacteria, Anaeroplasmataceae and Bacillaceae, were linked to superior competitive performance.
Conversely, low bacterial diversity at 1, 2, and 9 months was associated with increased risks of orthopedic issues, muscle strains, and “hairline” fractures. The study also identified bacterial families prevalent at 1 or 2 weeks old that were associated with higher risks of developing respiratory or musculoskeletal diseases later on.
The foals treated with antibiotics early in life exhibited significantly reduced bacterial diversity at 28 days compared to those untreated. These treated foals not only earned less prize money but also exhibited respiratory diseases at a rate ten times higher than their untreated counterparts after the age of 6 months.
While early health complications necessitating antibiotic treatment may have influenced later performance, it’s also plausible that antibiotic intervention led to reduced bacterial diversity, negatively impacting health and athletic outcomes.
“Further research is needed to solidify these findings, but it seems evident that management practices for young horses can significantly affect their future athletic capabilities,” noted a researcher involved in the study.
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