After birth, the foal’s umbilical cord breaks off. During this initial stage of life, the navel acts as a potential entry point for bacteria. If the navel does not close properly or quickly enough, bacteria can enter and multiply. This can lead to navel inflammation in the foal.

Various factors can increase the risk of an umbilical infection. These include, for example:

Good hygiene around the time of birth and regular checks of the umbilical cord are therefore important.

In the case of an early-stage, superficial umbilical infection in a foal, surgery is not always necessary. Depending on the severity, the umbilicus can be disinfected and a course of antibiotics started. If necessary, a bacterial culture with sensitivity testing can help in selecting a suitable antibiotic.

Has a superficial abscess formed? If so, it may be necessary to lance and drain it.

In the event of a severe umbilical infection, or if the infection does not respond adequately to treatment, surgical intervention may be necessary.

During the operation, the inflamed tissue around the navel is removed under general anaesthetic. The navel is excised down to healthy, uninfected tissue.

If the infection has spread further inwards, other structures may also be affected. In some cases, for example, the connection to the bladder is affected and part of the bladder neck must be removed. This is known as a partial bladder neck amputation. We examine the foal carefully prior to the operation. It is continuously monitored whilst under anaesthesia, and after the procedure we assist the foal as it wakes up and gets to its feet.