What is the recommended deworming schedule for pregnant mares?

What is the Recommended Deworming Schedule for Pregnant Mares?

The recommended deworming schedule for pregnant mares is crucial for maintaining the health of both the mare and her foal. Generally, it involves strategic deworming at specific stages of pregnancy to manage parasite loads effectively. This ensures a healthy gestation and reduces the risk of transmitting parasites to the foal.

Why is Deworming Important for Pregnant Mares?

Deworming pregnant mares is essential to prevent parasitic infections that can affect both the mare and her developing foal. Parasites can cause weight loss, poor coat condition, and other health issues, potentially impacting the mare’s ability to support a healthy pregnancy. Moreover, a high parasite load can be passed to the foal, leading to early health complications.

Recommended Deworming Schedule

Pre-Breeding Deworming

Before breeding, ensure the mare is on a regular deworming program. This sets a healthy baseline and reduces the risk of high parasite loads during pregnancy.

First Trimester Deworming

• Timing: Administer a dewormer at the start of the first trimester.
• Purpose: Control parasites early to maintain the mare’s health and prevent transmission to the foal.

Second Trimester Deworming

• Timing: Deworm again midway through the second trimester.
• Purpose: Continue managing parasite levels, ensuring the mare remains in optimal health.

Third Trimester Deworming

• Timing: Administer a final dewormer 4-6 weeks before the expected foaling date.
• Purpose: Reduce the risk of the mare passing parasites to the foal during birth.

Choosing the Right Dewormer

Selecting the appropriate dewormer is crucial for the safety of the mare and foal. Consult with a veterinarian to choose products that are safe for pregnant mares. Commonly recommended dewormers include:

• Ivermectin: Effective against a broad range of parasites.
• Fenbendazole: Safe for use during pregnancy.
• Pyrantel: Often used in rotation with other dewormers.

Monitoring and Adjusting the Deworming Schedule

Regular fecal egg counts (FEC) are useful for monitoring the effectiveness of your deworming program. These tests help determine the mare’s parasite burden and guide adjustments to the deworming schedule if necessary.

Practical Tips for Effective Deworming

• Consult a Veterinarian: Always seek professional advice to tailor the deworming schedule to your mare’s specific needs.
• Maintain a Clean Environment: Reduce parasite exposure by keeping pastures clean and rotating grazing areas.
• Monitor Health: Regularly check the mare’s weight, coat condition, and overall health to ensure the deworming program is effective.

People Also Ask

How Often Should Pregnant Mares Be Dewormed?

Pregnant mares should generally be dewormed three times during pregnancy: once in each trimester. However, the exact schedule may vary based on the mare’s condition and veterinarian recommendations.

Can Deworming Affect the Foal?

When using safe and approved dewormers, there should be no negative effects on the foal. It is crucial to follow veterinarian guidance to ensure both mare and foal’s safety.

What are the Signs of Parasite Infection in Mares?

Signs of parasite infection include weight loss, poor coat condition, diarrhea, and colic. Regular deworming and fecal egg counts help prevent these issues.

Is it Safe to Deworm a Mare Close to Foaling?

Yes, deworming a mare 4-6 weeks before foaling is recommended to minimize the risk of passing parasites to the foal. Ensure the dewormer used is safe for late pregnancy.

What Should I Do if My Mare Misses a Deworming?

If a deworming is missed, consult your veterinarian to adjust the schedule and ensure the mare remains healthy throughout her pregnancy.

Conclusion

Implementing a strategic deworming schedule for pregnant mares is vital for promoting a healthy pregnancy and ensuring the well-being of both the mare and her foal. By following a veterinarian-recommended program and maintaining a clean environment, you can effectively manage parasite loads and support the overall health of your horses.

For more information on equine health, consider exploring topics such as mare nutrition during pregnancy and foal care essentials.