Foaling Difficulties

Dystocia

Dystocia, or difficulty in foaling, is relatively uncommon in horses, but when it occurs, it can pose serious risks to both the mare and the foal. It is crucial to contact your veterinary surgeon immediately if you suspect any foaling difficulties during the process. In some cases, the foal can be manually repositioned within the mare to facilitate a normal delivery. However, there are instances where foal abnormalities, such as contracted tendons, make natural birth impossible. In these situations, your veterinary surgeon will initially attempt to correct the foal’s position. Unlike cows, horses have a lower tolerance for extensive manipulation during birth, as it can cause significant damage to the mare’s reproductive tract. If manual adjustment is not successful, a caesarean section may be required to safely deliver the foal.

Caesarean Section in Horses

A caesarean section in a mare is a complex and major surgical procedure that is performed under general anaesthesia. The decision to proceed with a caesarean is a critical one and can only be made by your veterinary surgeon, in consultation with you. This procedure is typically considered a last resort when all other methods to assist in the delivery have failed or when the foal’s or mare’s life is at risk due to foaling difficulties.

Retained Placenta in the Mare

After foaling, the expulsion of the fetal membranes, or placenta, is an essential part of the third stage of labour and should occur within a few hours. Occasionally, the mare may not expel the membranes, resulting in a condition known as retained placenta. If the placenta has not been passed within a few hours after foaling, it is imperative to seek veterinary attention promptly. Retained placenta can lead to severe complications, including endometritis, which is an infection of the uterus, and toxic laminitis, a serious and potentially life-threatening condition affecting the hooves. Early intervention by your Thrums veterinarian can help manage these risks and ensure the mare’s health and well-being after foaling.