In all animals, malassimilation refers to an impaired ability of the gastrointestinal tract to provide nutrients to the body because of maldigestion or malabsorption. Maldigestion occurs when food cannot be properly broken down within the intestinal lumen. Malabsorption occurs when nutrients fail to pass from the intestinal lumen into the blood. Which of the following diseases is most likely to result in maldigestion?

Alimentary lymphoma
Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency
Inflammatory bowel disease
Lymphangiectasia

Overview of Intestinal Diseases in Horses and Foals

By

Allison J. Stewart

, BVSC (Hons), MS, DACVIM-LA, DACVECC, The University of Queensland

Last full review/revision Sep 2013 | Content last modified Sep 2013

Intestinal disease in horses and foals is suggested by diarrhea, weight loss, hypoproteinemia, and abdominal pain. (Also see Colic in Horses.)

Paratuberculosis in Ruminants

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