POSTNATAL ADAPTION OF THE DIGESTIVE-TRACT IN THE FOAL

The gastrointestinal tract of the newborn is challenged with 3 differe nt tasks: During the first 24 hrs after parturition, the transfer of c olostrum-derived IgG has to take place. In addition, rapid adaptation is necessary for oral uptake and enzymatic digestion of milk, the main source of energy during the first weeks of life. Thirdly, the sterile gut lumen will quickly be invaded by a variety and large quantity of microorganisms. This microbial invasion is on one hand potentially har mful, but it is also essential for the establishment of the cellulolyt ic flora in the hindgut of the horse.