Before writing about nutrition and care of your mare during the pregnancy, I’d like you to remember that the nutrition of your mare is equally as important preconception. There are three important stages during the pregnancy, that is the first nine months, the tenth month and then the eleventh and final month, during theses stages you will need to adjust your feeding. Your mares energy needs increase continually during these three stages, not providing this nutrition can have drastic consequences on both the foal and mare including decreased lactation and in some cases decreased brain and physical development in your new foal.
It is not realistic to expect everyone to be able to afford premixed grain feeds and chaff especially formulated for a pregnant mare, I would like to say however that they do ensure your mare has a balanced mix of required vitamins and minerals. If you can’t feed these mixes you MUST feed good quality hay and grain. I always prefer Lucerne Hay as it has two times the protein and calcium of grass hays as well as more soluble carbohydrates. In addition Oats are also a great option even though they are known to “HEAT UP” our horses they are also a great source of fibre and energy. Oats also contain the lowest amount of starch, which is equally as important, and it is easily digested and palatable for most horses.
There are many people who believe that exercising your mare during pregnancy can cause miscarriage, I differ however and have always given my pregnant mares light work up until sometimes 8 months, I have found that it helps with birthing. I do give them a break however from any work for the first 8 weeks of pregnancy. I’d like to stress that light work means light work, maybe some trail rides but definitely not cantering. This can also help with the extra energy you may find the grain will give your mare, especially when they are yarded and or stabled. In the tenth month I would add and extra feed of grain during the day if possible and towards the birth extra lucerne hay to help with lactation.
It is always important to have a positive pregnancy test and due date. I will yard and stable my mares two weeks before their due date and then keep a close eye on them daily. You can be almost guaranteed your mare will foal on a stormy cold night “an old wives tale” but in my experience very true. If your mare is having obvious troubles foaling or if it is your first foal call your local vet for advice. Shane T Farrell