Abortion in mares

It is not uncommon for horses to experience a spontaneous abortion (miscarriage). A variety of medical reasons can cause this reaction, many of which depend on the stage of a horse’s pregnancy. Abortion in mares is defined as the failure of the fetus before it reaches the 300-day gestation period. Anything after that period is considered a premature foal birth.

The normal gestation period for a healthy mare is 340 days. The birth of a live or dead foal after 200 days is considered premature.

symptoms

• The formation of milk in the mammary gland
• mammary gland growth
• Vaginal discharge and bleeding

the reasons

Bacterial, fungal, or viral infections can all cause spontaneous abortions in mares. Bacterial or fungal infections can occur in a female’s uterus or placenta, while equine herpes virus type 1 (EHV-1) is transmitted to an animal in several ways. Some other causes of spontaneous abortion in horses include:

• genetic mutations
• umbilical cord torsion
• Mare Reproductive Syndrome (MRLS)
• Lack of nutrients sufficient to support the fetus (especially in the case of twins)

diagnose

Sometimes the cause of spontaneous abortion may remain unclear, but there are usually underlying medical causes. The fetus can be examined by autopsy in the laboratory. The mare must also be scanned and samples sent to a laboratory for diagnosis to determine if the problem is with the fetus or with the mare.

treatment or treatment

The course of treatment ultimately depends on the cause of the miscarriage. For example, if the miscarriage was caused by an infection, the vet will prescribe medication to eliminate said infection. The gestation period in which the miscarriage occurred in the mare will also be a factor in the type of treatment the animal receives.

Living and Management

A healthy mare is essential to a successful pregnancy and a healthy foal. While you may not have much control over the proper development of the fetus, taking proper care of a prospective mare is half the battle. Proper feeding with proper nutritional supplements is always a good idea for a healthy mare and foal.

protection

Mares that are usually less healthy than other horses should not be allowed to get pregnant; Likewise with older mares. It may also be a smart idea to keep a pregnant horse away from other horses on the farm during pregnancy.

You know your horse better than anyone else. Pay close attention to their health, behavior and comfort. If you are in any doubt about the quality of their health, seek advice from your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Vaccination against EHV-1, which can cause spontaneous abortion in mares, is also important.