A mare with a serious reproductive health issue

Mares can sometimes unfairly be given a bad rap. Unlike geldings, who have had their testicles removed, mares are are rarely spayed so they retain their full hormonal system and everything that goes along with it. Too often such behaviours can be dismissed as being "mareish" and not taken as seriously as they should be.

Mares can experience a range of health issues related to their reproductive system, from infections to cysts to more serious issues including endometriosis and cancerous tumours. Some mares display behaviours that can indicate intermittent pain consistent with their heat cycles.

Sound familiar ladies? I was diagnosed with endometriosis when I was 30 so I can relate!

Spaying a mare is a serious surgery and not done lightly. Recently we received an application for a horse who was experiencing painful cycles. Her owner had her ovaries biopsied and they were both diseased. The diagnosis was a rare and extremely painful ovarian disorder and several cysts. The only treatment was complete removal of both her ovaries.

We are so grateful her owners took her symptoms seriously and gave her the treatment she so desperately needed. We were pleased to have been able to support them with our Spay Grant. (Photo is not of their horse to protect the privacy of the owner.)

It is so important to understand what is "normal" behaviour for mares during their estrus cycle. If your mare is showing other signs, she might be in pain. Consider talking with your vet.

Want to learn more? This article is a good place to start.

https://thehorse.com/1126344/mares-in-heat-whats-normal-whats-not/