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Updated: Nov 20, 2025

A Simple Double Centrifugation Tube Method to Obtain Platelet-rich Plasma from Equine Blood
Published on: August 15, 2025
Variations in haematological and biochemical parameters in healthy ponies
Olga Witkowska-Piłaszewicz1, Anna Cywińska2,3, Katarzyna Michlik-Połczyńska4
1Department of Pathology and Veterinary Diagnostics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences - SGGW, Nowoursynowska str. 159c, 02-787, Warsaw, Poland.
Background:
Breed specific reference ranges for selected blood parameters are recommended for proper interpretation of blood tests, but there are only few reports dealing with ponies. The purpose of this study was to investigate if blood parameters differ among ponies' classes and to check if general normal values for equine species are applicable to ponies.
Results:
All, except total protein concentration, biochemical parameter significantly (p < 0.05) differed among ponies' classes. The most pronounced difference was noted in blood lactate concentrations, higher (p < 0.001) in the smallest ponies (class A). In all groups of ponies muscle enzymes (aspartate aminotransferase and creatine kinase) and urea were high when compared to normal values for equine species, but triglycerides and creatinine were low. Blood lactate concentration was high in comparison with normal values for horses only in class A ponies'.
Conclusions:
In healthy ponies, blood lactate concentration significantly differs between height classes. Normal values for equine species should not be directly applied to interpret the lactate, triglycerides, aspartate aminotransferase and creatine kinase values in ponies.
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