Feeding Barren and Early-Pregnant, Nonlactating Mares

Reproductive status determines how breeding mares are nourished. Barren and early-pregnant, nonlactating mares have the same nutrient requirements as mature horses at maintenance.

The most common mistake made in nutritionally managing broodmares is overfeeding early-pregnant mares. About 80% of fetal growth in the pregnant mare occurs in the last four months of pregnancy, so overwhelming a mare’s frame with too much weight is unnecessary.

The goal for early-pregnant mares should be to maintain moderate body condition. If good-quality pasture or hay is available, the normal mare should need no supplementary feed other than an appropriate vitamin and mineral supplement, such as Micro-Max (available in the U.S.) or Gold Pellet (available in Australia), and free-choice salt.

Mares of certain breeds (Warmbloods, Quarter Horses, and Arabians, for example) and other easy keepers do not need concentrates in most situations, as their efficient metabolism allows them to consume lower amounts of energy for maintenance. Obviously, if pasture is limited or if hay is in short supply, concentrated feedstuffs may be used to effectively meet the mare’s energy needs. A high-quality concentrate formulated by a reputable company should be used. Avoid low-quality, unfortified grains and feed intended for other livestock.

Consider weather, too. If mares are exposed to winter rain and cold, supplementary energy may be required to maintain body condition. Intakes vary based on the individual mare and the product at hand but should not exceed 5-6 lb (2.3-2.7 kg) per day. Higher intakes may be needed if a gain in condition is desired, though mares should be evaluated every week or two to be sure weight gain is slow and steady.

As pregnancy advances to the final three or four months, it might be necessary to bump up energy intake, and this can be done through the provision of a concentrate formulated specifically for pregnant mares.

Do you want to make sure your mare is being properly nourished? Nutrition advisors are available to help you.