THOROUGHBRED HORSES 
6 pages
Published: 7 May 2026
Author(s): Gibb, Z.
Download report PDF
DownloadEarly pregnancy loss is a growing problem for the Australian Thoroughbred breeding industry. This AgriFutures project looks at a common inherited gene linked to these losses.
Around half of all Thoroughbreds carry one copy of this gene. No horses have been found with two copies, which suggests affected embryos fail very early, before a pregnancy can be detected. Researchers are working with major breeding regions across Australia. They will collect hair samples from 500–1,000 stallions and broodmares to see how common the gene is across bloodlines and locations.
The research will help explain pregnancy losses that currently have no clear cause. It will also give breeders clearer information about the risks linked to certain matings. Over time, this work may support a future genetic test. This would help breeders plan matings with more confidence.
By reducing repeat covers, vet costs and handling, the project aims to improve breeding efficiency, horse welfare and the long‑term future of the Australian Thoroughbred industry.
This report explores a common genetic issue linked to early pregnancy loss in Australian Thoroughbred horses. It explains how better understanding this risk can help...
Genomic insights into multi-drug resistant Salmonella in Australian Thoroughbreds is a research project investigating the genetic makeup of Salmonella strains affecting Thoroughbred horses in Australia....
This pocket guide will assist veterinarians working with Thoroughbred horses to: Advise clients on best practice internal parasite management which aligns with current research Understand...
This pocket guide provides evidence-based, best practice approaches in an Australian context. It is designed to help stud owners, farm managers and staff: Reduce worm...
This project addresses a critical gap between high‑quality research and real‑world practice by identifying the social, attitudinal and contextual factors that influence adoption. Through a...
This document represents the first comprehensive resource providing detailed guidance on the management and treatment of common bacterial diseases in horses in Australia. Key highlights...
The Thoroughbred industry in Australia is the second largest in the world, both in terms of breeding and the number of races held. The industry...
The requirement for increased antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) across all industries and the knowledge that sub-optimal prescribing occurs in the veterinary industry dictates that work to...
