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and seemingly always present the breeder with ongoing problems either by being a dummy foal that has not got the will to try and survive or go on to be of small stature and always look 'run out'.
So, the importance of supplementation of a good source of quality protein in relation to the essential amino acid content of the source is quite important in these late pregnant mares as it is with the same mare in early lactation (up to about the three month stage). Usually this good quality protein source may be partially provided by using a prime Lucerne hay base to the mare's ration. Adequate DE levels, and the additional requirement for mineral and vitamin content, especially as research has shown that the recommended required amounts of some of these minerals as recommended by the NRC are not adequate. It is important to ensure the mare receives a correct and advanced level of Calcium and Phosphorous to adequately cater for the rapidly growing foal, a higher additional requirement for copper, zinc and manganese of 30-50mg per kg of hard feed has also been discovered. This will ensure the deficiencies of these elements that are linked to the causation of bone and joint cartilage abnormalities are in correct supply

Vitamin A,D and E requirement also increases. However, Vitamin A and E may be sourced through pasture or lucerne hay intake, and D through skin synthesis of sunlight or the feeding of shedded hay at the rate of about 1 kg/100kg BW.

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