Anyone had any luck predicting when a mare is close to foaling using her temp?

Question

I am wondering if anyone has had success with the drop in temp method of predicting a birth in mare (horse). I know this works with dogs (have a friend that breeds show dogs and regularly uses this method to predict whelping with 100% success) I have read it also works in mares to help pinpoint when she is within 12-24 hourse of birth. A horses normal temp ranges between 99.5-101.5

If anyone has used this method succesfully how much of a drop are we talking about? Any info on this would be great I am having a hard time finding the info on the net.

Thank you

Answer 1

I have never heard of this method- most of the methods I am familiar with involve checking the color and consistancy of the colostrum, the first milk the mare produces. Starting about a week before the mare foals, she will produce clear colostrum, which will gradually turn cloudy as the week progresses. About 18 to 24 hours before foaling, the colostrum will turn completely white and become sticky- like honey or syrup. This is also when the "waxing" of the mare's udder usually happens. I was always told that this process is a much better predictor of the actual foaling time than almost anything else out there- and having been present for several foalings, I can tell you that yes, it does work. Hope that helps.

Answer 2

Never tried it, don't know if it would work, but I find mares can be so different when it comes to foaling, I think for every mare it works for there will probably be just as many that deviate from it.  There are so many factors that can cause a mare to hang on or to foal on schedule that I find her environment plays such a big role, and it can change things quickly.  The best way I've been able to predict when my mares go is to keep a detailed log of their actions and progression leading up to their foaling, that way I can follow their progress and notice if something is different this year and be on the watch.  So far this year all of the mares have shown the same signs and progressed the same as they did prior to foaling the year before and for the most part I was right within the 24 hour span.  The only one that didn't was a mare who I though was going for sure and the mare across from her colicked that night and had to go to the clinic, the mare ended up hanging on until 3:45 that afternoon.

Answer 3

my girlfriend breeds thoroughbreds. people use this method, but it isn't as effective as it is with dogs.  it's somewhat accurate. the best thing to do is just watch the mare for other signs like waxing on the bag, softening in the rear, etc.