15/04/2026
For the Horse breeders 🐴
It’s that time of year again.
If you are thinking of putting your mare into foal this year, now is the time to start preparing her and yourself.
Here are our tips:
1. Minerals and Vitamins
Minerals and vitamins, especially the trace elements Copper and Iodine, are essential for optimal reproductive performance. Copper treatments could be a huge help in potentially getting your mare in foal.
2. Light
Light is so important in regulating the oestrus cycle. Getting mares out of dark stables and into the light can help start the transition of your mares to cycle.
3. Body Condition.
Having your broodmare in an optimal body condition before breeding can be invaluable. Excessive body fat can have a negative impact on fertility, so if this is your mare, slim her down or put her into work and get her fit.
4. Record heat cycles.
As the days lengthen, owners should be watching for signs of heat in your maiden or barren mares and recording the dates. Information regarding her heat cycles is very useful to your vet. Remember, the first heat of the year can last for a long time and is not fertile - but record it!
5. Start Early
Is your mare an older or problem mare? Did your mare not go in foal last year? Then start early and talk to your vet about the possible reasons for her not proving in foal. Do not leave an older/problem mare until July!
6. Prepare yourself
Decide on your stallion and make contact with the stud owner. If you are thinking about frozen semen, the mares must be young and healthy, ie under 15years of age and cycling regularly.
Any queries, talk to your vet!
