The start of horse life
A horse mare is pregnant for between 315 and 340 days. After birth, the foal is already a few minutes later, able to get up. This is important so that the lungs can unfold and the foal can take the first breast milk for strengthening. cdVet offers other foal and breeding products to support natural foal health.
Stallions are usually castrated between 1 and 2 years of age, before they reach sexual maturity. The exact timing of castration can depend on several factors, including individual health, breeding plans and personal preferences. Some horse owners prefer early castration, while others wait for later castration to ensure the horse has sufficient time for growth and development.
Mares have a natural reproductive cycle known as estrus. The normal estrus cycle lasts about 21 days, but can vary individually. A mare can be in estrus for about seven to nine days on average. Under normal conditions, several estrus periods occur throughout the year. The exact frequency can depend on factors such as time of year, light conditions, and individual differences. It is important to monitor the mare's cycle, especially if she is being used for breeding, to determine the optimal time for mating.
The frequency with which a horse can have foals depends on several factors, including the health of the mare and recommended breeding practices. Typically, mares become pregnant once a year or every 18 to 24 months to allow adequate recovery time and good care for the mare and foal. Reproduction too frequently can lead to health problems in the mare. It is important to consider the individual needs of the mare and seek veterinary advice to ensure optimal conditions for successful breeding.
Sexual maturity in horses typically occurs at around 12 to 18 months of age, but can vary depending on breed and individual developmental differences. In mares and stallions, first estrus or first impregnation can occur at around 12 to 18 months of age. It is important to note that true breeding maturity, at which a mare can successfully conceive, is not usually reached until around three years of age to ensure healthy physical and mental development.
A stallion's ability to mate depends on several factors, including his physical development and maturity. Generally, stallions reach sexual maturity between 12 and 20 months of age. However, the exact time may vary individually, and it is important to consider the stallion's physical and mental maturity, as well as the recommendations of an experienced breeder or veterinarian, before using him for mate.
