Oxytocin is a prescription medication and should be used only as directed by a veterinarian. Oxytocin is used frequently in veterinary medicine and is often dispensed to horse owners or kept in the pharmacies at breeding farms and stables. It is a natural hormone that causes uterine contraction, milk letdown, and has a variety of other effects.

Your vet may suggest that you give your horse oxytocin for a variety of reasons. It is often given intramuscularly, but can be given IV in small doses (only as directed). Expect your mare to exhibit signs of mild colic and cramping after receiving the oxytocin. Monitor your mare carefully following removal of fetal membranes for fever, inappetence or depression. Call your vet out again if you notice even subtle problems.

Oxytocin should always be kept refrigerated.