Section: Mare Illnesses that Stem from Pregnancy
Several illnesses can affect the mare as a result of pregnancy. These include:
Hyperlipidemia. This is the excessive circulation of lipids in the blood stream due to poor liver metabolism and is occasionally seen in some ponies during late pregnancy. These ponies are very depressed and anorexic (poor appetite). It is difficult to ascertain the exact cause. They usually stop eating and excessive fat mobilization occurs. Once the liver is affected they lose their appetite completely. Another illness like pneumonia or diarrhea may precipitate the whole process. The only cure is to get them eating again or induce parturition, although they often abort spontaneously. Avoiding stress and ensuring appropriate nutritional management may prevent this problem.
Hypocalcemia. Low calcium in serum results in neurologic-type characteristic signs, such as spasms, tremors, stiffness, incoordination, synchronous diaphragmatic flutter or hiccups. It is seen during late pregnancy or early lactation in horses that have been fed a diet excessive in calcium (or a very high Ca:P ratio) during pregnancy, or rarely, horses with parathyroid gland problems (i.e. problems with calcium metabolism). Horses with symptoms must be treated immediately with intravenous calcium. Oral calcium supplementation is recommended for several weeks, usually until lactation is over.
Vaginal varicosities. These may develop in older mares during pregnancy. The usual sign is mild to moderate bleeding through the vulva in an otherwise healthy mare. Varicosities may be seen by opening the vulvar lips or by inserting a vaginal speculum, which should be done by a veterinarian only after adequate cleansing of the vulva. Bleeding usually resolves spontaneously or after topical treatment.
Placentitis or infection of the membranes surrounding the fetus. This serious problem may ensue any time during pregnancy. It is more common in mid-to-late pregnancy and in older mares with poor conformation or poor body condition. The landmark sign is premature udder development with or without milk production, often paired with a vaginal discharge. Some mares suddenly develop an udder and just start dripping milk. This is a serious emergency that should be managed and treated immediately. Mares with placentitis often abort or deliver sick or weak foals despite intensive therapy at a referral hospital. Extensive antibiotic therapy is necessary, and the mare should be under careful observation, including ultrasound examinations.
Most pregnancies are problem-free, and the incidence of complications decreases dramatically in mares that receive appropriate preventative care. It is essential that you inform your veterinarian of your intention to breed a mare so he or she can design a preventative health program and schedule you for regular examinations. A good working relationship with a veterinarian experienced in reproduction can make the difference between a healthy and a high-risk pregnancy, and assure you that you've done everything possible to usher on the birth of a healthy happy foal, the ultimate goal.
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