Management of the Pregnant Mare

Horses, Reproduction and Breeding

Gestation Length The average gestation length (duration of pregnancy) of mares is 335 to 340 days, but can range from 320 to 370 days. There may be much variability among mares, but most individually follow similar patterns year after year. Foals are considered...
Parturition in Horses

Parturition in Horses

Horses, Reproduction and Breeding

The signs of impending parturition are about as variable as gestation length. Although there is a tremendous amount of variation among mares, many individuals do repeat their foaling behavior year after year. Therefore, it is recommended to keep accurate records on...

Care of the Newborn Foal

Horses, Reproduction and Breeding

Foal Behavior After Birth The foal will usually stand within 30 minutes, typically after several failed attempts. As soon as it is steady on its feet, often within an hour of birth, the foal will attempt to nurse. Teat-seeking behavior is persistent, even somewhat...

Teasing Mares

Horses, Reproduction and Breeding

Accurate estrus detection in mares is important on any horse breeding farm. One form of estrus detection is teasing. This article presents information on detecting mares in estrus using different teasing methods. Teasing Mares The teasing of a mare with a stallion is...
Breeding Shed Equipment

Breeding Shed Equipment

Horses, Reproduction and Breeding

Farms Using Artificial Insemination Most farms using artificial insemination will have at least two pieces of equipment: a phantom and insemination chute. Phantom The use of a mare phantom or “collection dummy” removes the need for a mare during semen collection. Once...