If you’re the lucky owner of a mare, than you know it’s not always smooth and easy with them. Their heat cycles can greatly affect their moods, and, in many ways, your riding plans. They can go from sweet and docile to cranky and irritable. On the other hand, with some mares it will be nearly impossible to even tell they are in heat. Either way, it’s important to learn about your mare and her cycle.

Mares usually only cycle during breeding season, but they are capable of coming into heat multiple times throughout the year. Depending on where you live, most mares cycle from early spring to early fall. During this time, every 21 to 23 days she will enter standing heat for 4-8 days. She will be more accepting of a stallion for that short period. In the winter, her reproductive system is usually quiet.

Signs of a mare in heat include:

  • Mood swings
  • Anxious
  • Irritable
  • Sensitivity to brushing
  • Easily distracted
  • Constant calling
  • Release small amounts of urine
  • Winks her vulva

Certain supplements, such as Mare Magic, can help alleviate symptoms so that you can continue riding and training without distraction. There is also hormone therapy or, in extreme cases, you can spay her. It is a good idea to follow your mare’s cycle and work with her to get the most out of your training sessions.

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