Peritoneal fluid analysis in equine post-partum emergencies admitted to a referral hospital: A retrospective study of 110 cases.

Background: Peritoneal fluid analysis has both diagnostic and prognostic value in colic but is little reported in the post-partum mare. Multiple conditions may present similarly in this period, and peritoneal fluid findings may aid a prompt diagnosis.

Objectives: To describe the peritoneal fluid findings and their association with diagnosis in mares presenting to a single referral hospital for treatment of post-partum emergencies.