What Are the Signs My Mare is Due Foal? A Comprehensive Guide
Recognizing the signs that your mare is about to give birth is crucial for ensuring a safe and successful foaling; What are the signs my mare is due foal? are a combination of physical and behavioral changes that gradually intensify as foaling approaches, allowing you to prepare and intervene if necessary.
Understanding Equine Gestation
The gestation period for mares typically ranges from 320 to 365 days, averaging around 340 days. However, this is only an average. Some mares foal earlier or later, without indicating a problem. It’s essential to keep track of your mare’s breeding date to estimate her foaling date and start closely observing her for signs that labor is imminent. Individual mares also have their own “normal”, so closely observe your mare in the weeks leading up to the expected foaling date.
Key Physical Changes Indicating Imminent Foaling
Several physical changes indicate that your mare is getting closer to foaling. These changes happen at different rates and intensities in each individual.
- Udder Development: This is one of the most reliable signs.
- The udder will begin to enlarge several weeks before foaling, becoming increasingly firm and full.
- In maiden mares (those foaling for the first time), this development may be more pronounced.
- “Waxing”: This refers to the appearance of waxy droplets on the ends of the teats.
- Waxing usually occurs within 24-48 hours of foaling, but can also happen several days prior.
- This is a key indicator that labor is very close.
- Relaxation of Pelvic Ligaments: The ligaments around the tailhead soften and relax.
- This makes the tailhead appear more prominent and loose.
- This change can occur days or even weeks before foaling.
- Vulvar Elongation and Relaxation: The vulva will become noticeably longer and more relaxed, often appearing swollen.
- Milk Dripping: Some mares will begin to drip milk before foaling.
- While not always present, it’s a good sign that the mare is producing colostrum.
- Be aware that excessive milk loss before the foal is born could compromise its access to crucial colostrum after birth.
Behavioral Changes Indicating Imminent Foaling
Along with physical changes, behavioral changes also indicate that your mare is getting ready to foal. These can be subtle, but important to recognize.
- Restlessness: The mare may become agitated and restless, pacing her stall or pasture.
- Separation from the Herd: Often, a mare will isolate herself from other horses as foaling approaches. This is a natural instinct to protect herself and her foal.
- Frequent Urination and Defecation: As the foal moves into position, the mare may urinate and defecate more frequently.
- Nesting Behavior: Some mares will exhibit nesting behavior, pawing at the ground and preparing a “nest” in their stall or pasture.
- Looking at her flanks: This can indicate the first signs of contractions.
Using Milk Testing to Predict Foaling
Milk testing kits are available to help predict foaling by measuring the calcium and magnesium levels in the mare’s milk. These kits provide a more objective assessment of the mare’s readiness for foaling.
Table: Milk Testing Kit Interpretation
| Calcium Level (ppm) | Magnesium Level (ppm) | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| :—————— | :——————- | :—————————————————– |
| Low (Under 200) | High | Foaling is likely several days to a week away. |
| Moderate (200-300) | Decreasing | Foaling is likely within 24-48 hours. |
| High (Over 300) | Low | Foaling is highly probable within 24 hours. |
Stages of Labor
Understanding the stages of labor can help you recognize when your mare needs assistance.
- Stage 1 (Preparatory Stage): This stage can last for several hours. The mare will exhibit restlessness, sweating, frequent urination, and mild contractions.
- Stage 2 (Expulsion of the Foal): This stage is characterized by strong contractions and the rupture of the amniotic sac (“water breaking”). The foal should be delivered within 20-30 minutes.
- Stage 3 (Expulsion of the Placenta): This stage involves the passage of the placenta. It should occur within 1-3 hours after the foal is born. Retained placentas can lead to serious complications.
When to Call the Veterinarian
Knowing What are the signs my mare is due foal? will prepare you to call a vet when necessary. Contact your veterinarian immediately if:
- The mare is in Stage 1 labor for more than two hours without progressing.
- The mare is actively straining in Stage 2 labor for more than 20-30 minutes without delivering the foal.
- You see a red bag protruding from the vulva (this is a placental separation and the foal needs immediate assistance).
- The mare is showing signs of distress or severe pain.
- The placenta is not passed within three hours.
- The foal is not standing and nursing within a few hours of birth.
Preparing for Foaling
Being prepared is key to a successful foaling.
- Prepare a clean, safe foaling environment.
- Gather essential supplies, such as a clean towel, iodine for the foal’s umbilical cord, and a rectal thermometer.
- Know your veterinarian’s contact information and have it readily available.
- Have a plan in place for handling potential complications.
Preventing Common Foaling Problems
- Ensure the mare has adequate nutrition during pregnancy.
- Vaccinate the mare appropriately to protect the foal from disease.
- Deworm the mare regularly, following your veterinarian’s recommendations.
- Maintain a clean and hygienic foaling environment.
What are the signs my mare is due foal? – Staying Vigilant
Closely monitoring your mare in the weeks leading up to her foaling date is essential. The better you know your mare and her normal behavior, the easier it will be to recognize subtle changes that indicate she is getting ready to foal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When should I start monitoring my mare for signs of foaling?
Start closely monitoring your mare about 30 days before her expected foaling date. This allows you to become familiar with her normal behavior and recognize any subtle changes.
What is “waxing” and why is it important?
Waxing refers to the appearance of waxy droplets on the ends of the mare’s teats. It’s a significant indicator that foaling is likely to occur within 24-48 hours, though sometimes it can occur days earlier.
How accurate are milk testing kits for predicting foaling?
Milk testing kits can be quite accurate, especially when used in conjunction with other signs. They provide a more objective measure of the calcium and magnesium levels in the mare’s milk, giving you a better idea of when foaling is imminent.
What does it mean if I see a “red bag” during foaling?
A “red bag” indicates a premature placental separation, also known as a red bag delivery. This is an emergency situation, and you need to immediately rupture the bag so that the foal can breathe, and call your veterinarian as quickly as possible.
How long should Stage 2 labor last?
Stage 2 labor, the expulsion of the foal, should typically last no longer than 20-30 minutes. If the mare is actively straining for longer than this without progress, call your veterinarian.
What is colostrum and why is it important for the foal?
Colostrum is the first milk produced by the mare after foaling. It’s rich in antibodies that provide the foal with passive immunity, protecting it from disease. Colostrum is essential for the foal’s survival.
How soon after foaling should the foal stand and nurse?
Ideally, the foal should stand and begin nursing within 1-3 hours of birth. If the foal is unable to stand or nurse within this timeframe, consult with your veterinarian.
What is a retained placenta and why is it dangerous?
A retained placenta is when the placenta is not expelled within three hours after foaling. It can lead to serious complications, such as metritis (uterine infection) and laminitis. It requires prompt veterinary attention.
What should I do if my mare rejects her foal?
Mare rejection is uncommon, but it can happen. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect the mare is rejecting her foal. They can provide guidance on how to manage the situation and ensure the foal receives proper care.
What are the potential complications during foaling?
Potential complications during foaling include dystocia (difficult birth), retained placenta, uterine prolapse, and foal malposition. Having a veterinarian on standby is always a good idea.
What should I do with the foal’s umbilical cord?
Dip the foal’s umbilical cord in a dilute iodine solution immediately after birth. This helps prevent infection from entering the foal’s bloodstream.
How can I best prepare for a successful foaling?
To best prepare for a successful foaling, educate yourself about the foaling process, monitor your mare closely, prepare a safe foaling environment, and have a plan in place for handling potential complications. Knowing What are the signs my mare is due foal? and being proactive are key to a safe and successful foaling.