Foals are born without infection-fighting proteins called antibodies (immunoglobulin G, or IgG) circulating in the blood stream. If they don't get enought IgG other immunoglobulins from their dam's colostrum they could be at risk of developing life-threatening infections. | Photo: Anne M. Eberhardt/The Horse

Young or old, male or female, regardless of breed, your horse needs a strong immune system to stand up to the challenges that come with living outdoors, commingling with other equids, and more. And critical to that immune system are infection-fighting proteins called antibodies (or immunoglobulin G ). How much do you know about your horse’s IgG levels, and exactly how can they impact his health?

To help you enhance your antibody knowledge, we’ve compiled 10 resources on IgG and the equine immune system available for free on TheHorse.com. Find more by searching “IgG” or visiting the immune system topic page on TheHorse.com.

ARTICLE: Researchers Confirm IgG Values for Predicting Foal Survival Foals are born without infection-fighting proteins called antibodies (or immunoglobulin G ) circulating in the blood stream. The mare’s colostrum contains these IgGs and other immunoglobulins to help protect foals from developing life-threatening infections. If foals don’t get enough, they could be at risk for serious disease or death. But how much is enough? 

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