Breeding the ‘difficult mare’

Abstract

Horses are known to be relatively fertile when compared with other species, which perhaps adds to a veterinary surgeon's frustration when faced with a ‘difficult mare’ or one with less than ideal fertility. The reasons a mare may be classed as difficult with regard to breeding are diverse, and this article aims to discuss some of the most common problems encountered. A systematic approach, coupled with appropriate diagnostics and treatment, will increase the likelihood of achieving pregnancy in the majority of mares, or at the very least enable us to feel we have taken all reasonable steps to achieve a pregnancy, even when we are not successful.