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FEEDING
THE PREGNANT MARE
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It
almost goes without saying that nutrition for the pregnant
mare is of crucial importance. Essentially, there are
four key stages of nutrition for the in-foal mare: Early
gestation - the first eight months of pregnancy Late
gestation - the final three months of pregnancy Early
lactation - the first three months of lactation Late
lactation - the fourth month of lactation until weaning
It is
important that that the mare receives a balanced diet
throughout pregnancy, and that in the last three months
her increased requirements are met.
The growth
of the foetus begins from conception, so from this time
onwards it is important that the mare receives a balanced
maintenance diet appropriate to her condition and any
work that she may be doing.
This is
essential, for although the most rapid growth stage
of the foetus is in the last three months, key developmental
stages occur during this early period.
FIRST
8 MONTHS
As long
as the mare is in good condition, a low-energy coarse
mix or cube and good quality forage is all that is necessary
at this stage, to ensure that she receives the correct
balance of nutrients.
For many
warmblood mares this will mean a low-calorie feed such
as Slim and Healthy to avoid them getting fat, whilst
for others who are not such good doers, Herbal Quiet
Mix, Quiet Mix or Quiet Pencils will usually still be
sufficient.
LAST
3 MONTHS
During
late gestation the rapid increase in the size of the
foetus means that the mare's nutrient requirements will
increase. At this stage Stud Mix or Stud Pencils should
be introduced.
Often
as the foetus gets bigger the mare will start to lose
her appetite, as there is less room for the stomach
and intestines to accommodate big meals. Splitting the
daily ration into several small feeds will help overcome
this problem.
Care should
be taken not to overfeed and allow the mare to become
fat. If she is only on small quantities of feed then
these can be topped up with a vitamin and mineral supplement
to ensure she is receiving adequate levels.
EARLY LACTATION
The mare could
be producing up to 5 per cent of her bodyweight as milk
per day (up to 5 gallons!). Her energy requirements
will be huge - greater than when she was in foal.
Good quality
grass will go some way to fulfilling them, but you may
need to give 35-50 per cent of the mare's intake as
Stud Mix or Stud Pencils. The amount required will depend
on the size and condition of the mare, the quality of
the grazing, and the weather. Don't forget that the
mare's water intake during lactation can double, so
make sure clean water is always available.
LATE PREGNANCY
| Body Weight |
Total amount of stud feed required
(maximum) |
Total amount of forage required |
| 400kg |
4-6kg |
2-4kg |
| 500kg |
5-8kg |
3-5kg |
| 600kg |
6-9kg |
3-6kg |
| 700kg |
7-11kg |
4-7kg |
NB. If
the mare is foaling during spring or summer and will
benefit from good quality grass, or if she has a tendency
to become overweight, then less hard feed may be required.
Information
kindly provided by Allen & Page
Norfolk Mill, Shipdham, Thetford,
Norfolk. IP25 7SD.
Tel: +44(0)1362 822900
Fax: +44(01362 822910
Email: sales@allenandpage.co.uk
Website: www.allenandpage.com
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