Changes of plasma uric acid levels in horses after galloping

Two horses were alternately galloped and cantered at 48 h intervals in a cross over trial. Galloping produced a rise in plasma lactic and uric acids. The lactic acid decreased in concentration whereas the uric acid increased in the hour after exercise. Plasma phosphate levels were depressed 1 h after galloping. There was no significant variation in these parameters after cantering. Possible reasons for these changes are discussed.