24/08/2023
SOME GREAT INFO ABOUT FOALING:
The gestation length of mares is approximately 340 days, however there is great variation and some pregnancies will last over 365 days. Mammary gland development usually begins 4-6 weeks prior to foaling. Waxing of teat ends occurs in 70% of mares 24-72 hours prior to foaling.
The first stage of labour is characterised by the mare pacing nervously, lifting her tail, circling, restlessness. This usually lasts 10-90 minutes (but can last up to 5 hours) and looks similar to colic. It is a good idea to wrap the mare’s tail if you have time or remember at this stage!
Second stage is when the chorio-allantois (“water bag”) presents and ruptures. Most mares lie down and strain intensely as the foal is pushed out. Once the front feet and head present, the foal is usually pushed out fairly easily. MOST FOALS ARE DELIVERED WITHIN 20-30 MINUTES after rupture of the chorio-allantois. The placental membranes are often draped over the foal. The foal usually breaks through these but it does not hurt to break the membranes to clear the foal’s face. The umbilical cord remains attached until the mare stands up. If your mare is in this stage for >30 minutes, call us!
Stage 3 of foaling is the expulsion of the placenta. Usually this occurs within 2-6 hours after birth of the foal. If the placenta is not passed by 6 -12 hours the mare may need assistance to avoid endotoxaemia.
FOALING EMERGENCIES
If the foaling does not progress quickly and smoothly or you have any questions, it is always best to call us immediately rather than waiting. Foaling emergencies include, among others, “dystocia” (difficult foaling usually resulting from improper fetal presentation or position), and premature placental separation (red bag delivery).
Remember the 1-2-3 Rule.
*Foal should be born within 30 minutes of active delivery.
1. Your foal should STAND within one hour of birth.
2. Your foal should be nursing on it's own within 2 hours.
3. The placenta should pass within 3 hours.
If these things do not happen, call us!!
AND DON'T FORGET, Ruby Racing and Breeding offer a fully monitored FOALING DOWN service here in Geraldton.