Mares in Season Calmer

Understanding mares in season and calming them down. What does it mean exactly to be in season? What are the behavioural signs a mare is in season?

The diestrus period, which lasts two weeks, often goes unnoticed, whereas, for some mares, the first week of heat can be accompanied by behavioural changes and possible irritability. Ready to reproduce and accept the stallion, they can then present several external signs with varying degrees of enthusiasm: raised tails, urine squirting, winking of the vulva and other squealing noises. These signs are sometimes accompanied by aggression, stress, hypersensitivity in the kidneys and back, stiffness or even lameness. In rarer cases, the mare may show signs of colic. When a mare is difficult during the oestrus cycle, she is often difficult in a stable (or in the pasture) as well as while working: lack of concentration, clinginess, etc.

What is the best way to soothe a mare in season?

To help your mare feel more comfortable, it may be recommended to supplement the mare's diet either on an ad hoc basis or continuously during the oestrus cycle. Herbal products that relieve stress are especially popular. If the mare is showing persistent signs of discomfort and or aggressiveness, it is strongly advised to call a Vet. These differences in behaviour may be due to ovarian pain or even reproductive system disorders. Several types of treatment, natural or hormonal, or even surgery such as an ovariectomy, may then be considered.
 

Being in heat is a completely natural phenomenon linked to the reproductive process. Each mare will experience this phase in their own way. Some mares will be inconspicuous, while others that are more sensitive will show several outward signs and some changes in behaviour. These same mares will be called ‘moody’. To best support them and improve their well-being, mares should be closely monitored and given appropriate treatment.

The PASKACHEVAL® range includes CYCLE O'CALM, a liquid product that is rich in plant extracts and especially designed to improve the well-being of difficult mares in their stable and while working.