Supporting your mare during estrus or pregnancy

Every horse has unique needs that vary based on factors like age, breed, living conditions, and activity levels. The sex of the horse also plays a significant role. Mares, for example, go through a natural reproductive cycle, which can lead them into estrus. Additionally, mares have the ability to carry and nurse a foal.

These different life stages bring distinct nutritional requirements. While mares can obtain many essential nutrients on their own, there are certain needs that may not be met due to factors such as their living conditions. In these cases, additional supplements for mares can be beneficial. This blog will explore the various phases of a mare’s life and the nutritional needs that come with each.

What is estrus?

Estrus refers to the fertile period in a mare’s cycle. During this time, a mare becomes receptive to mating and may exhibit noticeable changes in behavior.

How do mares differ from stallions and geldings?

Most riders have a preference for one type of horse, but aside from the obvious biological differences, what truly sets mares, stallions, and geldings apart?

Stallions are male horses and are typically known for their spirited nature. Due to their testosterone levels, they often display behaviors such as dominance, aggression, and heightened attention to mares. As a result, most stallions are castrated unless they are being used for breeding purposes. Stallions are also generally not suitable for boarding stables or riding schools because of their unpredictable behavior.

Geldings, on the other hand, are castrated males. With less testosterone, they tend to have calmer, more stable temperaments. As a result, geldings are often regarded as more reliable and easier to handle compared to stallions or mares, who still have active sex hormones.

Mares are female horses who experience a regular ovulation cycle, leading to hormonal fluctuations that can influence their behavior. While some mares are known for their strong characters, they may also display “moody” behaviors due to the ebb and flow of their hormones. Mares come into heat every few weeks, and their behavior can be particularly intense during this time.

How to recognize estrus in your mare?

Estrus can be recognized by various signs or symptoms in a mare, especially through behavioral and physical changes. Common signs are:

• Increased nervousness
• A desire to seek contact with stallions
• Frequent urination
• “Winking” of the vulva
• Tail raised or positioned sideways
• Affectionate or irritable behavior
• Restlessness
• Swollen vulva
• Reduced concentration

For many horse owners, it becomes obvious when a mare is in estrus, as she may exhibit behaviors such as increased urination, sensitivity to belly touches, and other noticeable actions.

When is a mare in estrus?

A mare enters estrus when she is fertile and naturally feels the urge to mate. This cycle occurs on a regular basis, generally every 21 days.

The mare’s cycle

The mare’s reproductive cycle lasts about 21 days, with estrus typically lasting between 5 to 7 days. In some mares, this cycle may pause during the winter, but it becomes more pronounced in spring and summer. The increased daylight, warmer temperatures, and changes in diet all contribute to a stronger estrus cycle beginning around February or March.

When to have your mare covered?

If you plan to breed your mare, the best time is typically between April and August, as this ensures a foal will be born the following spring. A mare is most fertile in the final two days of estrus. To support fertility, ensure your mare has access to high-quality roughage and fresh grass, which is rich in nutrients like vitamin E. If she is primarily fed roughage, consider supplementing her diet with natural vitamin E to boost her fertility.

How to manage a mare in estrus?

The effects of estrus vary by mare. While some mares show little to no change, others may become difficult to ride or handle during this period. Estrus can make mares particularly sensitive, irritable, and easily distracted by other horses. In extreme cases, they may even exhibit aggressive behavior toward humans.

If you notice your mare struggling with estrus, it’s important to remember that she is also uncomfortable. Fortunately, there are natural solutions to help manage her symptoms. A calming herbal mix containing ingredients like L-Tryptophan, monk’s pepper, passion flower, hops, and valerian root can promote relaxation and support hormonal balance during estrus.

Supporting pregnant mares

Is your mare pregnant and is a foal coming soon? Congratulations! This exciting time requires careful attention to her diet to ensure both she and her unborn foal receive the proper nutrients. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for a pregnant mare; she should not be too thin or too fat. Provide a balanced ration of roughage and protein, and consider adding amino acid supplements to support healthy protein levels.

In the final two months of pregnancy, consider giving your mare raspberry leaf. This herb helps prepare her uterus and abdominal muscles for birth and promotes recovery afterward. Raspberry leaf also supports milk production and can be continued post-delivery. However, avoid using it until the last phase of pregnancy, as it has a stimulating effect on the uterus.