Survey of Congenital Limb Deformities in Foals in Kaduna State and Their Corrective Management

Congenital limb deformities in foals pose a significant challenge to equine breeders and veterinary surgeons in Nigeria's North West region, where horses are integral to cultural and commercial activities. This survey documents the types, prevalence, and corrective management outcomes of congenital limb deformities in foals in Kaduna State from January 2022 to June 2024. Eighty-three foals born on registered horse farms and examined at the Kaduna State veterinary clinic within the first 30 days of life were included. Deformities were classified as angular limb deformities (ALD), flexural deformities, or rotational limb deformities based on clinical and radiographic assessment. Angular limb deformities were the most prevalent category, found in 54% of affected foals, with carpal valgus being the most common specific deviation. Flexural deformities of the distal interphalangeal joint accounted for 31% of cases. Conservative management using splinting and bandaging resolved limb deviation in 67% of ALD cases within 45 days. Surgical periosteal transection was required in 18% of cases with persistent moderate deviation after conservative management. Early detection and prompt intervention were significantly associated with favorable outcomes. Malnutrition in mares during late pregnancy was identified as a risk factor in 28% of affected foals. These findings highlight the need for enhanced foal health monitoring protocols and nutritional management guidance for equine breeders in Kaduna State. Keywords: foal limb deformity, angular limb deformity, equine surgery, Kaduna, congenital orthopedics.