Changing hormones result in changes to behaviour. These changes can be more marked in younger mares and fillies who have yet to adjust to their fluctuating hormones, mares who have already had a foal and mares on starchy or sugary diets.
''Feed the mare to feed the foal'' - wise words from many an experienced breeder. With little grass due to the dry weather, grazing can be topped up in the feed bowl.
What are foal slippers? Foal slippers, or eponychium, are rubbery capsules that completely cover the hooves of the newborn foal.
Although it is traditional to wean at 6 months, this is actually too early. The important gut microbes are not fully up and running until the foal is 7.5 months old.
Young horses rarely follow the theoretical growth curves. They have growth spurts which can coincide with spring grass coming through, or coincide with nothing in particular!
When mares are cycling, their hormones are fluctuating and, in many mares, will trigger changes in behaviour.
Congratulations if you have an in-foal mare! What can be more rewarding than breeding your own youngster?
Early feeding and management can have long lasting impact on the health, soundness and longevity of our horses. Choosing high quality forages ensures they reach their full potential, without risking damage to their immature joints.
When a foal is born they rely on their mother to provide all the nutrition they need, and with a foals continuous routine of eat, sleep, poop, repeat, you may be surprised how much extra nutrition your mare requires.
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Our friendly advisors are happy to help, from product questions to complete personalised feed plans. Speak to our Feed Line for feeding advice today.