How do I care for a mare after foaling?

🐴 How to Care for a Mare After Foaling

Caring for a mare after foaling is crucial to ensure her health and the health of the newborn foal. Proper post-foaling care involves monitoring, nutrition, and a stress-free environment. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you care for your mare after she gives birth.

🌟 Immediate Post-Foaling Care

🩺 Initial Checks

  1. Observation:
  • Monitor the Mare and Foal: Keep a close eye on both the mare and the foal for the first few hours. Ensure the mare is attentive to the foal and the foal starts nursing within 2 hours.
  1. Placenta Examination:
  • Check the Placenta: Examine the expelled placenta to ensure it is complete. Retained placenta can cause serious health issues. If any part of the placenta is retained, contact your veterinarian immediately.
  1. Cleanliness:
  • Clean the Mare: Gently clean the mare’s hindquarters with warm water to remove any remaining fluids or tissues.

🥗 Nutrition and Hydration

🥕 Feeding

  1. Quality Hay and Forage:
  • Provide high-quality hay and access to fresh pasture. Good nutrition supports milk production and helps the mare regain her strength.
  1. Concentrates:
  • Grain: Introduce grain gradually to meet the increased nutritional demands. Ensure the grain is formulated for lactating mares.
  1. Supplements:
  • Consider adding supplements rich in vitamins and minerals, especially calcium and phosphorus, to support milk production and overall health.

💧 Hydration

  • Fresh Water: Ensure the mare has constant access to fresh, clean water. Hydration is vital for milk production.

🏡 Post-Foaling Management

🌿 Environment

  1. Clean and Comfortable Stall:
  • Maintain a clean, dry, and comfortable stall for the mare and foal. Bedding should be soft and absorbent.
  1. Safe Pasture:
  • If the weather permits, allow the mare and foal to graze in a safe, enclosed pasture. Fresh air and exercise are beneficial for both.

🐎 Exercise

  • Gradual Introduction:
  • Gradually reintroduce light exercise to the mare after the first few days. Walking can help improve circulation and prevent stiffness.

🛠️ Health Monitoring

  1. Veterinary Check-Ups:
  • Schedule a veterinary visit within 24 hours of foaling to ensure both the mare and foal are healthy. The vet will check for any complications and administer necessary vaccinations.
  1. Monitor Vital Signs:
  • Keep an eye on the mare’s temperature, pulse, and respiration rates. Any significant changes should be reported to a veterinarian.
  1. Udder Health:
  • Check the mare’s udder daily for signs of mastitis (swelling, heat, or discomfort). Proper milking and hygiene can help prevent infections.

🍼 Foal Care

  1. Nursing:
  • Ensure the foal is nursing regularly and getting adequate colostrum in the first 24 hours. Colostrum provides essential antibodies for the foal’s immune system.
  1. Umbilical Cord Care:
  • Treat the foal’s umbilical cord stump with antiseptic solution to prevent infection.
  1. Growth Monitoring:
  • Track the foal’s growth and development. Healthy weight gain and activity levels indicate proper nursing and health.

📋 When to Consult a Veterinarian

Contact your veterinarian if you notice:

  • Signs of distress in the mare or foal.
  • Abnormal discharge from the mare.
  • The mare not eating or drinking.
  • The foal not nursing or appearing weak.