Owners of a mare are familiar with it. One week a month, their mare turns into a hormonal nightmare. Of course, this doesn't cause problems for every mare, but some can be quite affected by it. In this blog, we’ll tell you more about estrus and how to relieve the discomfort for your mare – and yourself.
What exactly is estrus?
Estrus refers to the fertile period of mares. This period typically runs from early spring to late autumn and is dependent on the number of daylight hours and the temperature. Some mares may experience it year-round if they are kept in warm, well-lit stables. From spring onwards, the mare produces estrogen which prepares her body for mating. Estrus lasts for an average of 5 days, followed by ovulation. At this time, the mare can be covered by a stallion. If fertilization does not occur, the mare will come into heat again after approximately 3 weeks.
Recognizing estrus
The signs of a mare in heat can vary from horse to horse, but typically include sensitivity in the belly, frequent urination, and behavioral changes such as frequent neighing or restlessness.
Extreme changes
However, some mares can turn into a real nightmare during their estrus period. They experience physical discomfort, making them very difficult to handle. Mares can suffer from:
- Sensitivity in the belly and girth area
- Colic or cramps
- Reduced appetite
- Restlessness and stress, or conversely, lethargy
- Aggressive behavior
The ovaries of the mare are located just behind the saddle, so it's logical that she might experience discomfort during riding. This can result in less forward movement, sticking to your leg, or even kicking.
Support
Now that you understand why your sweet mare turns into a real dragon during her estrus, you can help and support her to make this period more bearable.
1. Adjust your training schedule
If you know when your mare will be in heat, you can slightly adjust your training schedule. Give her an extra day off or make the training less intense.
2. Ensure the right weight
Overweight can lead to longer periods of estrus. Always ensure that your mare has a healthy weight.
3. Ensure adequate turnout
Put your mare in heat out to pasture. This way she can relieve her stress by moving and has enough distraction to take her mind off her hormones.
4. Too extreme? Contact the vet
Does your mare suffer from extreme behavioral changes? Then definitely contact your vet. Through thorough examination and possibly a scan, he can detect tumors or infections. A tumor on the ovaries can explain extreme behavioral changes. If your mare is in heat for an unusually long time, this may be due to an infection. Enlarged follicles are also a common problem that can cause behavioral changes.
Supplements
Nowadays, there are many supplements available to support a mare in heat. Most of these are based on chasteberry, which helps to bring the hormones back into balance. Does your mare suffer from her hormones? Be sure to check out our range of supplements, and who knows, they might help you and your mare.
Cavalor - Venus
Venus by Cavalor is an herbal extract that supports the mare's cycle and alleviates the effects of irregular ovulation. It is composed of various natural ingredients that support metabolism during the cycle, suppress typical mare behavior, and provide relaxation for the horse.
Shop Cavalor Venus
Equine America - No More moods
The supplement No More Moods by Equine America is especially suitable for temperamental mares or to support the estrus cycle. No More Moods is a liquid herbal supplement that naturally ensures a regular cycle.
Shop No More Moods
NAF - Oestress
Oestress by NAF naturally supports the mare's hormonal cycle. The composition of the supplement nourishes the mare with extracts from plant-based ingredients. Oestress also contains magnesium, which helps against stress and muscle tension.
Training and dealing with a mare in heat is unfortunately not always easy. But try to understand and support her so that you can still work together as best as possible with your (night)mare.
Do you have any questions about your mare’s estrus or about the supplements? Then definitely contact us. Our experts are happy to help you further.
