by Kate Manning

Created on: January 16, 2011   Last Updated: January 19, 2011

When breeding horses, it is important to remember that mares will soon be needing extra nutrition, not only to maintain their own health but to aid in the development of the foal. There are several different aspects of the feeding regime to take into consideration:

Hay.

During the eleven month pregnancy, it is a good idea to provide ample, good quality hay to your mare.

Alfalfa is a rich and nutritious hay, but should not be fed in abundance, as too much alfalfa, along with the mare’s weight gain, could result in founder. Typically, a pregnant mare can eat 20-30lbs of straight alfalfa if it is being controlled. If they have free-choice on their hay (ie. A large alfalfa bale in their pasture) then they may eat up to 40lbs or more. However, you should remember to feed according to weight and size - a pony will require less, whereas a draft horse will require more. If she is on a good quality, 80-100% alfalfa hay, then you will not need to make many changes to her grain or supplement schedule.

Alfalfa is a good source of protein and calcium for horses, which greatly benefit’s the developing fetus.

If you choose to feed a less-rich hay, or grass hay, then you should make some adjustments to the grain feed.

Always have plenty of water available, and if you choose to feed alfalfa in potions throughout the day, make sure they have grass, or a roughage hay to graze on as well.

Grain.

For the earlier stages of your mare’s pregnancy, you should not need to increase her grain intake. Keep her on a maintenance diet with a good hay feeding and she should maintain her health without effort. If she is underweight to begin with, talk to your vet and devise a nutritious diet for your mare that will encourage healthy weight gain, without being a danger to her or the foal.

Too much grain at any time can cause founder or over-heating in horses, so be very precise and do not over feed.

Most horse feed companies have grains specially for pregnant mares, such as ‘Horse Sense’ or ‘Purina‘, which contain all the vitamins and minerals that she needs for development. These come with feeding directions for different stages of pregnancy, which if followed correctly, will give her everything she needs.

Supplements.

Some owners choose not to feed grain. Therefore as the pregnancy continues they may need to supplement some nutrients to make sure their mare is getting everything she needs.

During the latter stages, especially within the last three months of pregnancy, your mare will need an increased amount of nutrients such as phosphorus, calcium and protein. It is during this time that the fetus is developing the most, and therefore she will need some supplements for the foal to absorb as well.

Mineral blocks provide a good source of phosphorus, as well as calcium which will help strengthen the developing bones.

Vitamin E is a crucial supplement, as it is not always readily available to them in the grass or hay. This can be provided in a powdered form, and added to the food.

It is a good idea to give a bran mash at least once a week. A bran mash will help keep their digestion running and their intestines clear, and especially with the extra pressure from the uterus, it will help the mare during the latter stages of pregnancy.

Always check with your vet before making any big changes to your horses diet, and all changes should be made gradually over a period of a few days. Too much in the way of nutrients can also be detrimental to both the mare and foal’s health, so be aware and increase a little bit at a time, and make sure fresh water is available at all times.

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