Introduction

You mare is expecting! That’s a good news. Let get down to serious talk: When exactly the little bundle of joy is expected to arrive? Today’ guide will explore everything about the horse pregnancies.

Horse Pregnancies Don’t Follow The exact Timeline

 The average caries her pregnancy for around 336 days or 11 months. Few of them may give early births that means their pregnancy ends around 320 days, while the others can be a little late and may stretch that to 362 days.

Whey There are Variations in Timeline?

There are few factors that may impact the pregnancy timeline in mare:

• Age Factor: The first time (maiden) moms may take a bit longer.
• Breed Factor: Few breeds have different gestation periods.
• Underlying Health Conditions: If the mare is having few underlying health issues, it might impact the length of gestation period.
• Twins? Very Rare! Twin births are very rare in horses, if you think so then you need to expect a short pregnancy timeline.

Three Important Phases of Pregnancy

As we know, the average pregnant mare gestation period is 11 months, here are the three key stages:

• 1^st Trimester

This span covers the first three and half months or 114 days approximately. In this stage the baby develops.  So, you need to make a regular veterinary check-ups.

• 2^nd Trimester

The second trimester starts from next 115 days and ends at 226 days. This stage is somewhat discreet as the baby is growing progressively.

• 3^rd Trimester

The final stage starts from next 227 days till giving birth. Quick fetal growth is achieved in this phase and the mare is prepared for the actual birth.  

What are the Signs of Approaching Foaling?

As your mare approaches towards her due date, it is important to be well aware of signs that labor is about to happen. This will include:

• Nesting Behavior: Few mares display nesting behavior like creating a pile of bedding or stroking at the ground.
• Calcium Deposits: A chalky substance may be formed around the vulva.
• Waxing Teats: A waxy and white substance may appear on the mare’s teats.
• Relaxation of Ligaments: Ligaments around the tailhead of the mare become looser.

Key Take Away

While these symptoms may show that birth is near, it’s not is important to depend on them. Have a regular vet checkup and keep monitoring your mare carefully.

Conclusion

Learning about the horse pregnant mare period is important for every horse owner. While the average gestation timeline is 11 months. However, it is important to remember that variations may occur as per mare’s age, breed, her health conditions and number of expecting foals.  By being well-informed about the stages of pregnancy, potential factors impacting the gestation timeline and signs of impending labor, you should better be prepared to happily welcome a new foal into this world.