Finally, it's done. The mare has successfully completed her pregnancy of approximately 335 days. Her udder filled with milk two to four weeks ago and is now full and plump. The external signs are clear. The foal is ready to see the light of day.
Horse owners need to have all the equipment necessary for assisting with the birth at hand. Ideally, the mare should have moved into her foaling stall six weeks before the birth so that she feels comfortable there. A clean stall with thick bedding is a good place for the foaling. Most mares foal at night or in the early hours of the morning. This is when the stable is quietest and they feel safest.
What you should prepare:
In the first phase, the opening stage, contractions begin. The uterus contracts and the birth canal opens wide so that the foal can slide through. This phase can last up to an hour. During this time, the amniotic sac bursts and the amniotic fluid flows out of the vagina.
These are the signs that it is time:
This is when the foal is born. As the pushing contractions start, the foal is pushed forward through the birth canal. This phase shouldn't take longer than 30 minutes. The mare usually lies down to give birth. The strong contractions of the abdomen push the foal towards the vaginal opening, where it ideally emerges with its front hooves first. Often, one hoof lies over the other, followed by the legs, nose, head, neck, and shoulders, with the rest of the body sliding out behind. The foal, which is still covered by the amniotic sac, is freed from it by the mother during the birth process. However, if the foal's mouth and nose are still covered by the amniotic sac, assist the mare and foal briefly so that the foal can breathe. Afterwards, it is important to step back so that the natural process is not disturbed.
The umbilical cord usually breaks when the mother and foal stand up. Afterwards, it is advisable to disinfect the umbilical stump with an alcoholic solution. This process can be repeated several times during the first day.
The afterbirth is expelled by the mare about an hour later. However, it can sometimes take longer. It is important to keep the afterbirth in a bucket so that your vet can check it for any pathological changes and to ensure that it is complete.
Birth is a natural process. Most mares manage it without any problems. However, if you notice that the mare is struggling, her circulation is slowing down, or the birth is taking significantly longer than expected, be sure to seek help from your veterinarian. Complications during birth are rare, but when they do occur, they can be life-threatening for both the mare and the foal.
Even if everything went smoothly, it is advisable to have your vet check on the mother and foal soon after birth to confirm that everything is as it should be. You can make an appointment directly through petsXL.
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