Birthing Clues Article
Birthing Clues
There is no set timetable, however the mare does give us a few clues that let us know that the arrival is near. Milk fills the mare's udder approximately 2-4 weeks and the teat become engorged 4-6 days prior to the event. The tail head may become more prominent within a few days of the foaling event and the vulva and croup muscles seemed more relaxed.
Within 1 to 4 days the teats may or may not 'wax over'. Colostrum (yellow, honey colored secretion) usually appears 1-4 days prior to birth of the foal. The udders may actually drip several days before foaling so keep a close eye on your mare if you want to be present at foaling time.
As the time gets nearer the mare becomes restless and may appear anxious. She may also appear to be colicky as she gets up and lie's down frequently. The mare may bite at her flanks, and will become very sweaty. She will appear to raise her tail and urinate often, this is usually the first stages of labor. The birth is eminent!
Colic may still be a possibility and if her behavior is prolonged for more than 1-2 hours and no foaling has begun, contact you veterinarian immediately for his/ her advice. More often than not everything goes as planned with nothing to fear, remember this, horses have been giving birth long before we ever arrived on the scene. So take a breath, relax and happy foaling!
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