Atresia coli in 7 foals (1964–1990)

Abstract

Summary Intestinal atresia is uncommon in foals. The occurrence of equine atresia coli was 0.44% in the Veterinary Medical Data Base (VMDB). An occurrence of equine intestinal atresia of 1.3% was found at the Large Animal Hospital, University of Montreal. Five case records from the VMDB and 2 from the University of Montreal were reviewed. The breed distribution of cases was: Appaloosa (N = 2), Morgan (N = 1), Standardbred (N = 1), Throughbred (N = 1), Paint Horse (N / 1) and Quarter Horse (N = 1). Five foals had type III or blind‐end atresias and 2 foals had type II or cord atresias. The pelvic flexure was absent in 2 cases. Clinical signs were progressive abdominal distension, colic, lack of faecal production and lack of response to enema administration. Two cases presented a blind ending rectum on digital palpation. Surgical correction was attempted in 3 foals but was unsuccessful. A grave prognosis should be given when this condition is diagnosed in foals.