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Mare Not Eating or Depressed, Soon after Foaling
Summary
A post-foaling mare is often more interested in her newborn than anything else, and may show a temporarily reduced appetite. This is especially true for inexperienced mares. Regardless, appetite and attitude should return shortly after foaling, and will continue to be a good indicator of her general well-being.
The appearance of reduced appetite and mild depression immediately after foaling may not be indicative of a problem. If these signs persist though, then it could signal a problem. Signs of abdominal pain (colic) are not uncommon, and can relate to simple uterine cramping or something life-threatening, such as blood loss or intestinal crisis. A fever may be indicative of the beginning of an infection due to a retained placenta.
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Code Red
Call Your Vet Immediately, Even Outside Business Hours- If you notice signs of colic, along with this sign.
- If you have any questions about the health of the recently foaled mare.
your role
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What To Do
Assess the mare's general health using the Whole Horse Exam on Post-Foaling Mare (WHE), paying particular attention to heart rate, mucous membrane color, intestinal sounds, and appearance of the vulvar area. Share your findings and concerns with your vet.![icon](https://horsesidevetguide.com/wp-content/themes/hsvg-wiki/assets/img/new_images/Combined_Shape.png)
Skills you may need
Procedures that you may need to perform on your horse.
your vet's role
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- What is the horse's rectal temperature?
- When did you first notice this?
- When did your mare have her foal?
- Is the foal active and nursing?
- Was the foal's birth normal?
- Are you seeing other signs of abdominal pain (colic)?
- What are the results of the Whole Horse Exam (WHE)?
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Diagnostics Your Vet May Perform
Figuring out the cause of the problem. These are tests or procedures used by your vet to determine what’s wrong.
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Diagnoses Your Vet May Consider
The cause of the problem. These are conditions or ailments that are the cause of the observations you make.
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Treatments Your Vet May Recommend
A way to resolve the condition or diagnosis. Resolving the underlying cause or treating the signs of disease (symptomatic treatment)
further reading & resources
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Helpful Terms and Topics
Written, reviewed or shared by experts in equine health