What is Failure of Passive Transfer?
Foals are born without protective immunity against infectious disease organisms. All foals require “passive transfer” of infection-fighting proteins called antibodies that are found in the mare’s first milk, or colostrum. If a foal does not obtain enough quality colostrum, he will not be protected from viruses and bacteria. This is referred to as failure of passive transfer (FPT) of immunity. Approximately 5-20% of newborn foals are diagnosed with FPT and are at risk for developing serious medical conditions.