Custom Search
|
|
When Your Mare Is Pregnant
Dealing with a pregnant mare is almost similar with caring for pregnant women. If pregnant women have swinging moods and hormones-related conditions that can be a challenging feat to deal with, same goes with pregnant mares. Equines also undergo extreme sensitivity during gestation. Thus, pregnant mares need to be properly taken care of, same way that an expectant human should be provided for. Humans carry a child in her belly for nine months, but mares carry their babies for eleven months. When the mare is two months pregnant, one can already see the signs that the horse is indeed pregnant. At this time, the mare has already gained weight and frequently lies down. The pregnant mare should be placed in a larger stall. The extra space in the larger stall would be enough for her and the foal after she’s given birth. In this bigger space, the mare will be more comfortable and her gestation would be less stressful. The mare’s progress must be recorded and her health condition must be of utmost importance. Like a pregnant human, a pregnant mare also needs more foods than she usually eat especially when the mare is on her 5th month. The recommended food for the pregnant mare is a cup of high carbs and fats pellets mixed with a cup of sweet feed. Bulk and forage should consist a mare’s eating program. Her foods must be rich also in calcium, iron and protein. Mineral and vitamin supplements may also be necessary to be given to the equine upon vet’s recommendation. Although the mare need not be watched for every hour within the day, she should still have to be watched from time to time to make sure that she is safe and sound. The mare should be allowed at least 5 hours outside in open air away from any stallion. Grooming may also be necessary to account for blood circulation. Should you choose to ride her, if the mare is a riding horse, you can do so until she foals. Once a month, the mare must be checked up by an Equine veterinarian to keep track of her condition and ensure that all is well with the mare’s pregnancy. An ultrasound may be required to make certain the mare has not absorbed the fetus. Absorption or abortion may happen due to dehydration or other natural cause which is why the pregnant mare must be provided with adequate foods, nutrients as well as water. The mare’s behavior should be observed. Strange signs like excessive pawing, runny nose as well as dehydration must be watched out for as these may tell that there is something not right with the mare or her baby. Call the veterinarian immediately to have her assessed and determine if she is sick or whatever is wrong. Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com To read more horse articles or to find a range of horse related services such as horse breeders to equine vet. Please visit Horse.com.au, an Australian Horse Directory for everything you need on horses. |
|