@invitedinred: An overweight (obese) horse giving birth—particularly a mare with a high body condition score (BCS 7 or above on a 9-point scale)—faces several potential risks that can affect both her and the foal. Here’s a breakdown of the main concerns: For the Mare 1. Dystocia (Difficult Birth): • Extra fat in the birth canal or around the pelvis can physically obstruct the foal’s passage during delivery, increasing the risk of a prolonged or complicated labor. 2. Poor Fitness and Endurance: • Overweight mares may have reduced stamina, making it harder for them to cope with the physical demands of labor and recovery. 3. Increased Risk of Laminitis: • Obesity increases the chance of laminitis, particularly around foaling time when hormonal changes are already at play. 4. Metabolic Issues: • Obese mares are more prone to insulin resistance and equine metabolic syndrome, which can complicate pregnancy and lead to issues like retained placenta. 5. Decreased Fertility or Reproductive Efficiency: • While this is more of a concern before conception, overweight mares may experience irregular cycles or difficulty getting in foal again after birth. For the Foal 1. Large Foal Syndrome: • Overweight mares may produce larger foals, increasing the risk of dystocia and birth trauma for both mare and foal. 2. Delayed Development or Weakness: • Some foals from overweight mares can be weak or underdeveloped due to impaired placental function or metabolic imbalances in utero. 3. Poor Immune Transfer: • If foaling is prolonged or traumatic, the foal may be slow to nurse, impacting the transfer of antibodies from colostrum. #Ember #pregnant #foal #foal2025 #appaloosa

Annie/Whirlwind Ranch

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Friday 18 April 2025 15:49:32 GMT