Your cart is currently empty!

How Long Are Horses Pregnant? Horse Gestation Period
Ever wondered How Long Are Horses Pregnant? If so, you’re not alone. Each year hundreds of horse owners eagerly await the arrival of a new foal to join their herd. As exciting as this time can be, it’s important to understand how long horses are actually in gestation and what needs to occur before the birth of a healthy foal. In this blog post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about horse pregnancy including length of gestation, signs to watch out for leading up to labor, and beyond.
Contents
- 1 What are horses and where do they come from?
- 2 Different types of horses in the world
- 3 How long are horses pregnant?
- 4 Factors that can affect the length of a horse’s pregnancy
- 5 How can you tell if your horse is pregnant?
- 5.1 Absence of An Estrus Cycle May Indicate a Horse Is Pregnant
- 5.2 Changes in Behaviour & Responses Can Indicate Pregnancy
- 5.3 Elevated Progesterone Levels Are a Sign a Horse Is Pregnant
- 5.4 Bloated Stomach Can Be a Sign of Pregnancy
- 5.5 Changes to Mare’s Udders Can Indicate a Horse Is Pregnant
- 5.6 Changes in Movements Can Indicate Pregnancy
- 5.7 Ultrasound Scan Is The Best Indicator That a Horse Is Pregnant
- 6 What should you do when your horse is pregnant?
- 7 How many times can a horse get pregnant in it’slifetime ?
- 8 What are some common signs that a horse is about to give birth?
- 9 Common complications of horses during gestation and delivery
- 10 How long after giving birth will the foal be able to stand?
- 11 How to care for your newborn foal after birth?
- 12 Conclusion: How long are horses pregnant?
- 13 FAQ Pregnant horse
- 13.1 How long is a mini horse pregnant?
- 13.2 Is it normal for a horse to lose weight during pregnancy?
- 13.3 How many times does a horse give birth in a year?
- 13.4 Can a horse be pregnant for 12 months?
- 13.5 Are horses pregnant for 9 months?
- 13.6 How many babies can a horse be pregnant with?
- 13.7 What is the oldest horse can be to get pregnant?
- 13.8 What do you feed a pregnant horse?
What are horses and where do they come from?
Horses are majestic creatures that have been around for thousands of years. They are used mainly for transportation, recreation and labor-intensive activities such as farming and logging. Horses come in all shapes and sizes, ranging from the small Shetland pony to the imposing Shire Horse. They have been domesticated for centuries and can be found living in almost every corner of the world.

Different types of horses in the world
Though they may look similar, horses are actually divided into different breeds. Each breed has evolved to suit a certain type of environment and task. Some breeds such as the Arabian were bred for long-distance racing, while others like the Clydesdale were bred for high strength activities like pulling heavy carts or logs. These include show horses, dressage horses, and cutting horses that excel at different sports such as rodeo or horse racing.
How long are horses pregnant?
Female horse gestation period is typically between 326-354 days. Longest documented gestation period for a horse was over 400 days. Record-breaking gestation period for a horse was 13 months.
During the gestation period, pregnant horses go through three main stages: early development, fetal growth and final preparation for birth. During the first stage, the embryo implants into the uterus lining and begins developing major organs such as the heart, brain, and lungs. In this stage, it is important to provide proper nutrition and care to ensure a healthy pregnancy.
The second stage is marked by rapid fetal growth. This is when the fetus gains most of its weight and size, which can put a lot of strain on the mare’s body. It is important to monitor the mare closely during this stage as any complications could affect both the mother and the foal.
In the final stage, the foal begins preparing for birth by shifting into position for delivery. This stage is crucial as the foal’s lungs must be ready for breathing outside the womb. During this time, the mare may experience some discomfort and start producing milk.

Factors that can affect the length of a horse’s pregnancy
Like humans, there are several factors that can affect the length of a horse’s pregnancy. These include age, health condition, and nutrition. Generally speaking, mares who are younger and in better physical condition tend to have shorter gestations than older mares or those in poorer condition.
Similarly, the amount of nutrition available to the mare during her pregnancy can impact the length of her gestation. This means that it’s important to monitor your horse’s nutritional intake and health during pregnancy.
How can you tell if your horse is pregnant?
Here are some of the signs to look for:
Absence of An Estrus Cycle May Indicate a Horse Is Pregnant
The reproduction of horses is a delicate and complex process, and pregnancy is an important aspect of it. A mare’s estrus cycle, commonly known as heat or season, plays a significant role in determining if she is pregnant. An estrus cycle happens every 21 days on average when the mare is not pregnant. During this time, the mare experiences behavioral changes such as flirting, winking of the clitoris, and frequent urination. Additionally, there is a visible discharge of mucous from the vulva.
Changes in Behaviour & Responses Can Indicate Pregnancy
When a mare becomes pregnant, her body experiences significant changes, some of which result in behavioral changes. One such change is the absence of the estrus cycle or heat behavior. Other behavioral changes that may indicate pregnancy include an increased appetite and slower movement due to weight gain. A pregnant mare may also become more protective of her belly or may show aggression towards other horses.
Elevated Progesterone Levels Are a Sign a Horse Is Pregnant
During pregnancy, a mare’s body produces increased levels of progesterone, a hormone that supports the development of the fetus. This hormone is responsible for maintaining the pregnancy and preparing the mare’s body for birth. Therefore, elevated levels of progesterone in a mare’s blood or urine can indicate she is pregnant.
Bloated Stomach Can Be a Sign of Pregnancy
A bloated stomach, also known as a barrel belly, is a common sign of pregnancy in mares. As the fetus grows inside the mare’s womb, her abdominal muscles stretch and become less toned, causing a rounder and more prominent belly. However, it is essential to note that other factors such as worms or overfeeding can also cause bloating.
Changes to Mare’s Udders Can Indicate a Horse Is Pregnant
As the mare’s body prepares for birth, her udders also go through changes. These changes are a result of hormonal fluctuations and increased blood flow to the udders. A pregnant mare’s udders may become larger, firmer, and more prominent as she nears her due date. This can be easily observed by checking the size and shape of the `teats`. In some cases, a small amount of milk may also be present in the udders.
Changes in Movements Can Indicate Pregnancy
The development of a fetus inside the mare’s womb can cause changes in her movements. As the pregnancy progresses, the mare may start to move differently due to the extra weight and size of the fetus. Additionally, late in pregnancy, the foal will begin to kick and move around more actively, which can be felt by placing a hand on the mare’s belly.
Ultrasound Scan Is The Best Indicator That a Horse Is Pregnant
While the above signs and changes in a mare’s behavior and body can indicate pregnancy, the most definitive way to confirm it is through an ultrasound scan. An ultrasound scan uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the fetus inside the mare’s womb, allowing for accurate detection of pregnancy. This method can detect pregnancy as early as 15 days after conception, making it an important tool for breeders and veterinarians. Overall, understanding and recognizing these signs of pregnancy can help horse owners provide proper care and prepare for the arrival of a new foal on their farm. It is essential to consult with a veterinarian if you suspect your mare may be pregnant to ensure the health and well-being of both the mare and the foal.
What should you do when your horse is pregnant?
A mare’s exercise and caloric intake should be treated like a non-pregnant horse for the first 7 months of pregnancy. Moderate riding and exercise is beneficial for mares during this time. Increasing caloric intake should be avoided until the last 3-4 months of pregnancy. Veterinarian consultation is recommended.
During the last trimester of pregnancy, a mare’s exercise and diet should be closely monitored. It is important to gradually decrease her level of activity and increase her caloric intake to support the growth of the foal. However, this should be done in consultation with a veterinarian to ensure that the mare is receiving the appropriate amount of nutrition.
In addition to monitoring exercise and diet, regular check-ups with a veterinarian are essential during pregnancy. Ultrasounds and blood tests can help detect any potential problems and allow for early intervention if needed.
How many times can a horse get pregnant in it’slifetime ?
The average horse can get pregnant two to five times in its lifetime. However, how many times a horse gets pregnant will depend on the individual and its health. For instance, a mare that is older or in poor health may not be able to conceive and carry healthy foals as often as a younger and healthier animal. It is important for owners to work with their veterinarian to develop an appropriate reproductive plan for their horse so that it can produce healthy foals and maintain its overall well-being.
What are some common signs that a horse is about to give birth?
The mare’s vulva will swell and relax in the last couple of days before foaling. Near the end of pregnancy, mare may exhibit signs of colic discomfort, such as restlessness, kicking at belly, looking at flanks, and displaying irritability or unease. She may also have decreased appetite and increased urination as the foal moves into position for birth. The mare’s udder will also start to fill with milk, and her teats may become waxed or sticky in appearance. This is a sign that the mare’s body is preparing for nursing and milk production. Another common sign is the appearance of wax-like substance on the end of her teats, which indicates that she will go into labor within a day or two.

Common complications of horses during gestation and delivery
Though the majority of horse pregnancies and deliveries occur without issue, there are some common complications that can arise. One such complication is dystocia, which occurs when labor progresses slowly or doesn’t progress at all. This can happen for a variety of reasons including an undersized fetus not being able to pass through the birth canal.
Other common complications include placentitis, which is an infection of the placental membranes; retained placenta, where part of the placenta remains in the uterus after delivery; and multiple births, which occur when a mare gives birth to two or more foals.
These conditions can be life-threatening for both mares and their foals, so it’s important to have your horse monitored by a veterinarian throughout her pregnancy.
How long after giving birth will the foal be able to stand?
Most foals are able to stand within the first hour after birth and will begin nursing soon after. However, some foals may take up to a few hours before they can stand on their own. It is important for mare owners to be aware of how long it takes for a foal to stand and provide necessary assistance should it become necessary.

How to care for your newborn foal after birth?
After delivery, it’s important to provide your foal with the best possible care. This includes providing adequate nutrition and ensuring that its environment is clean and dry. Foals should also be monitored closely for any signs of illness or distress. Make sure to keep an eye out for colic or other digestive issues such as diarrhea or vomiting, which can be dangerous and require immediate veterinary attention.
It’s also important to introduce your foal to other horses slowly so that it has time to adjust to its new surroundings. This helps the foal build confidence with people and other animals, as well as develop social skills. Make sure you provide plenty of love and affection for your new arrival.

Conclusion: How long are horses pregnant?
In conclusion, how long horses are pregnant varies but on average lasts 11 months or 335 days. Careful monitoring is essential throughout this time in order to ensure a healthy pregnancy and successful foaling. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian for more information on how best to care for your mare during pregnancy. By understanding how long horses are pregnant and being aware of the common signs of labor, you can be prepared for a safe delivery.
You might be interested: how fast does a horse run
FAQ Pregnant horse
How long is a mini horse pregnant?
Female horses of all breeds share a similar pregnancy timeline, typically lasting 11 months. Miniature horses have the same gestation period as larger horse breeds.
Is it normal for a horse to lose weight during pregnancy?
Temporary body condition loss may occur during pregnancy, lactation, and competition periods. Unexplained weight loss could necessitate veterinary intervention.
How many times does a horse give birth in a year?
Mare are known to cycle, like cats, during long periods of daylight. This is believed to be an evolutionary developmental adaptation to ensure that the mare gives birth during the most hospitable season: Spring. Because of this, a mare can only have one pregnancy a year and will usually only have one foal per year.
Can a horse be pregnant for 12 months?
Gestation period for a mare typically ranges from 10 to 12 months (326-354 days). In some cases, gestation has gone up to 365-370 days. Mares usually carry one foal per pregnancy, though twins can occur rarely.
Are horses pregnant for 9 months?
Mares’ pregnancy length can vary from 330 to 370 days. A general rule of thumb for predicting a due date is 11 months plus 1 week after the last covering date.
How many babies can a horse be pregnant with?
Horses usually only give birth to a single foal. The UC Davis Center for Equine Health reports that multiple embryos do not generally survive in mares. Recently, a set of twins was born to a mare and named Will and Grace.
What is the oldest horse can be to get pregnant?
Breeding a maiden mare should not occur beyond 16 years old. For experienced broodmares, breeding until 23-25 is generally safe, although more difficult.
What do you feed a pregnant horse?
Mares’ nutritional requirements can effectively be met with good quality pasture or hay. Supplement such as Purina® Free Balance 12:12 vitamin/mineral supplement or Enrich Plus® Ration Balancing horse feed may also be necessary.
Leave a Reply