Finding the right supplements can help maintain a pregnant mare’s body condition while supporting fetal development and lactation. The following products are designed to provide essential nutrients during late gestation and after foaling. This guide reviews five options commonly used by equine professionals and enthusiasts, highlighting key benefits and how each may fit different mare needs.
| Product | Brand | Size / Supply | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Farnam Mare Plus Gestation & Lactation Supplement 7.5 pounds | Farnam | 60 Day Supply | Body condition, fetal development, lactation support |
| Farnam Mare Plus Gestation & Lactation Supplement 5 pounds | Farnam | 40 Day Supply | Body condition, fetal health, lactation |
| Farnam Mare Plus Gestation & Lactation Supplement 5 pounds (Pack of 2) | Farnam | 40 Day Supply (per pack) | Condition maintenance, fetal and foal health |
| Kentucky Equine Research EO-3: DHA and EPA Omega-3 | Kentucky Equine Research | 32 oz | Omega-3 support for reproductive health and lactation |
Farnam Mare Plus 7.5 lb – Gestation & Lactation
The Farnam Mare Plus supplement is designed to help pregnant and lactating mares maintain optimal body condition. It provides nutrients considered important for the health of mares and their unborn or nursing foals and supports fetal development in the last trimester and during lactation. The product is positioned for mares needing extra calories and micronutrients during critical late gestation and early milk production.
Farnam Mare Plus 5 lb – Gestation & Lactation
This 5-pound formulation targets the same core goals: maintaining body condition and supplying nutrients beneficial to mares and their unborn or nursing foals. It is marketed for use in the final weeks of pregnancy and during lactation to support foal development and maternal health. The smaller size can be a practical option for farms testing suitability before expanding to larger quantities.
Farnam Mare Plus 5 lb Pack of 2 – Gestation & Lactation
This option shows per-pack guidance and is intended to support the health of pregnant and lactating mares. Each pack contains a 5-pound supply with the stated benefits focused on maintaining condition and providing nutrients essential for the health of mares and their foals. This can be useful for multi-mares environments where distribution and dosing per mare are managed individually.
Kentucky Equine Research EO-3 DHA & EPA Omega-3
EO-3 delivers marine-derived long-chain omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA, advertised to have positive effects on reproductive health and maternal conditions in breeding stallions, pregnant, and lactating broodmares. It emphasizes efficient use of these fatty acids as precursors to local hormones, offering an alternative to plant-based omega-3 sources. This product is positioned for mares needing targeted omega-3 support during late gestation and lactation.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations for Pregnant Mares
- Stage-specific needs: Late gestation and lactation place high demands on energy, minerals, and fatty acids. Consider products that clearly target both fetal development and maternal health.
- Form and dosing: Decide between larger, longer-running supplies (60-day) and smaller, more frequent options (40-day). Consider whether you manage multiple mares and need per-mare dosing clarity.
- Nutrient balance: Look for balanced blends that include essential vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids, especially omega-3s, to support immune function, skin and coat, and foal development.
- Evidence and labeling: Favor products with transparent ingredient lists and any relevant veterinary guidance or certifications. Check that the product aligns with your mare’s health status and dietary plan.
- On-farm practicality: Evaluate storage, ease of scoop dosing, and compatibility with existing feeds or supplements to avoid over-supplementation or feed intolerance.
- Economic considerations: Compare cost per day or per mare across options, accounting for supply size and the frequency of administration.
- Veterinary consultation: Always coordinate with a veterinarian, especially for mares with prior complications, to tailor a safe supplement strategy.