🌸 Managing a Mare with Retained Placenta: A Comprehensive Guide

Retained placenta in mares is a serious condition that requires prompt and effective management to prevent complications such as infection, laminitis, and endotoxemia. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to manage a mare with retained placenta.

🕵️ Understanding Retained Placenta

1. Definition

Retained Placenta: Occurs when the placenta is not expelled within three hours post-foaling.

2. Risk Factors

Dystocia: Difficult or prolonged labor.
Older Mares: Age can be a contributing factor.
Multiple Births: Mares with a history of multiple births are at higher risk.
Breed: Some breeds are more prone to retained placenta.

🚨 Immediate Action Steps

1. Identify the Problem

Timing: Monitor the mare closely after foaling. If the placenta is not expelled within three hours, consider it retained.
Signs: Look for hanging membranes or partial expulsion of the placenta.

2. Call the Veterinarian

Immediate Help: Contact your veterinarian as soon as you suspect retained placenta. Early intervention is crucial.

🩺 Veterinary Management

1. Manual Removal

Veterinary Procedure: The vet may attempt gentle manual removal if the placenta is easily accessible.
Caution: This should only be performed by a vet to prevent tearing and complications.

2. Oxytocin Administration

Hormone Injection: Oxytocin stimulates uterine contractions to help expel the placenta.
Dosage: The vet will administer the appropriate dosage based on the mare’s condition.

3. Uterine Lavage

Flushing the Uterus: A sterile solution is used to flush the uterus, helping to remove any remaining placental tissue and reduce infection risk.
Antibiotic Solution: An antibiotic may be added to the lavage solution to prevent infection.

4. Antibiotic Therapy

Infection Prevention: Systemic antibiotics are often administered to prevent uterine infection (endometritis).
Duration: The course of antibiotics will be determined by the vet based on the mare’s response.

5. Anti-Inflammatory Treatment

Pain Management: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be prescribed to manage pain and reduce inflammation.
Dosage and Duration: Follow the vet’s recommendations for dosage and duration.

🌟 Post-Treatment Care

1. Monitor Vital Signs

Temperature: Regularly check the mare’s temperature to detect fever, which can indicate infection.
Heart Rate and Respiration: Monitor for signs of distress or discomfort.

2. Observe for Complications

Laminitis: Watch for signs of laminitis, such as reluctance to move, heat in the hooves, or abnormal stance.
Metritis: Look for signs of uterine infection, including foul-smelling discharge and lethargy.

3. Provide Supportive Care

Hydration: Ensure the mare has access to fresh water to stay hydrated.
Nutrition: Offer high-quality feed to support recovery and maintain strength.

🛡️ Preventive Measures for Future Pregnancies

1. Pre-Foaling Care

Regular Vet Check-Ups: Schedule regular veterinary check-ups during pregnancy to monitor the mare’s health.
Nutrition and Supplements: Provide a balanced diet with necessary supplements to support a healthy pregnancy.

2. Post-Foaling Monitoring

Close Observation: Monitor the mare closely after foaling to ensure the placenta is expelled within the normal timeframe.
Early Intervention: Act quickly if there are any signs of complications.

3. Breeding Management

Breeding History: Consider the mare’s breeding history and potential risk factors when planning future pregnancies.
Health Management: Maintain overall good health and manage any underlying conditions that could contribute to retained placenta.

By understanding the signs, taking immediate action, and providing thorough post-treatment care, you can effectively manage a mare with retained placenta and reduce the risk of complications.