QUESTION FOR EXPERIENCED HORSE PEOPLE – nutrition for a pregnant, starved mare?

Published October 21, 2010

Question by Wild and Free: QUESTION FOR EXPERIENCED HORSE PEOPLE – nutrition for a pregnant, starved mare?
I rescued a couple horses from a meth addict. The mare is about a month away from foaling (already bagging up) and she is a skeleton! Last neglected pregnant mare I had, I fed her as much as was safe, and all the food went to the foal. The foal was stillborn and so huge my husband could barely lift it for burial. How should I feed this new mare safely? I want her to be healthy as I can get her, but don’t want to “grow” the foal too big. Also, should I wean the foal early so the mare won’t be too drained? She is pretty bad, but too far along to abort (about a month due).
Anybody ever experience this? Suggestions? Please – only knowledgeable horse folk – I am experienced in horses but just want advice from other horse people.
I know what supplements and minerals she needs. I just want information from folks who have experienced this. Anything I feed her, the foal will get the best of it, and I don’t want to grow the foal too big before it’s born.

Best answer:

Answer by virg_mack
Call a vet in your area dealling with live stock and horses. You dont have to book an appointment just ask to talk to someone and they will be able to give you the safest and best way to deal with your situation. Does the mare need to take any vitamin supplements if she isnt getting any, a good diet, and the after care for the mare. These are things they will be able to help answer. Good luck and good health to you and all that is yours!

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