How to Care for a Pregnant Mare

Caring for a pregnant mare is not much different than caring for one that is not pregnant, but there are some things to keep in mind. Give these few extra details special attention, and your pregnant mare is sure to receive all the care she needs.

Instructions

1. Give the pregnant mare regular exercise. Pregnant mares can be safely ridden into the ninth month of the pregnancy (gestation period is 11 months). Regular exercise will benefit the mare when she gives birth.

2. Add mineral supplements to the pregnant mare's diet by the third trimester. While this is not essential if they are being fed a healthy diet, it is recommended.

3. Administer the rhino vaccine at the fifth, seventh and ninth months of pregnancy, and the EWT-Flu vaccine in the tenth month. The latter increases antibodies to pass onto the mare's foal.

4. Keep the pregnant mare's water supply fresh and clean. Wash troughs and buckets often. Make sure the mare has plenty of water available at all times as dehydration can cause complications in the pregnancy.

5. Maintain a diet of grains, hay and even some alfalfa. Slightly increase the amount of food approximately one month before the mare gives birth.

6. Introduce a daily wormer to the pregnant mare during the last month of pregnancy. Prior to this, maintain the mare on her regular deworming schedule.

Tips & Warnings

• Prepare a stall for the mare to give birth in. Let her get relaxed and comfortable in it. This stall should be as sanitary as possible.

• Consult with your veterinarian about caring for your pregnant mare. All mares are different, and food levels, the amount of exercise and the amount of vaccines may all differ from mare to mare.

• Do not feed a pregnant mare fescue hay or grass beyond the third month of pregnancy. This type of hay or grass contains a spore that can cause complications during the pregnancy and birth.