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FAQ #37211

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I have a mare with moon blindness. She was tested for leptospirosis, and her titer level was consistent with exposure but not active infection. Is it possible that this mare can spread leptospirosis to my other horses, via secretion in her urine or feces? Can she give it to a stallion if they breed?

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Leptospirosis is not the only possible cause of moon blindness, although it has been found to be the most common cause. Other bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections including Streptococcus equi (strangles), influenza, Onchocerca larvae, etc., are also capable of causing the condition. In the absence of a clear link between leptospirosis and your mare's condition, you should work with a veterinarian to narrow down the possible causes. Also, a veterinarian who has recently examined your mare should be consulted regarding the risks of infecting other horses, based on serological bacterial titers, which can change rather quickly.

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