Pregnancy influences the hematological profile of Carthusian broodmares.

In order to investigate the effect of pregnancy on equine hematological profile, venous blood samples were taken from 44 Carthusian broodmares every two weeks during pregnancy, divided into three periods: I (conception to 110 days), II (111-220 days) and III (222 days to delivery). Routine hematological analysis was performed. Packed cell volume (PCV) increased in period II probably as a consequence of the climatic conditions or as a result of physical stress of lactation during period I. After that, a reduction in PCV was found but this was not matched with a similar decrease in total serum proteins. Platelets presented the same evolution as PCV. Neutrophils and eosinophils decreased in period II, probably because of increased hormone concentrations. In conclusion, pregnancy influences the hematological profile of the Carthusian broodmare and these reference values can aid the diagnosis of diseases during pregnancy.