If you’re looking for the best feed for pregnant mares, there are several factors to consider before making a purchase. Pregnant mares require a balanced diet that provides them with the necessary nutrients to support the development of their fetus without compromising their own health. While there are many feed options available on the market, not all of them are suitable for pregnant mares. It’s crucial to ensure that the feed meets their specific needs to ensure a healthy pregnancy and foal.
When searching for the best feed for pregnant mares, it’s essential to consider factors such as the mare’s age, weight, and overall health, as well as the stage of pregnancy. The feed should ideally provide a balance of energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals necessary for the mare and the developing fetus. Additionally, the feed should be easily digestible and low in sugar and starches, which can lead to metabolic issues like insulin resistance and laminitis.
If you’re uncertain about which feed to choose for your pregnant mare, some questions might help you make an informed decision. What are the nutrient requirements for pregnant mares, and how does the feed you’re considering meet those requirements? Has the feed manufacturer conducted any research or testing to ensure that their product is safe and effective for pregnant mares? Does the feed meet the unique needs of your mare based on her age, weight, and overall health? Answering these critical questions can help you find the best feed for your pregnant mare to ensure a successful pregnancy and the birth of a healthy foal.
10 Best Feed For Pregnant Mares
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This product is ideal for feeding professional horses in their mare and foal stages.
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This product is ideal for promoting joint health in horses through the use of essential oils.
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3
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This product is ideal for supporting pregnant and lactating mares with essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients.
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4
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This product is ideal for feeding horses in the mare and foal stages.
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5
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Ideal for providing essential nutrients and vitamins to pregnant and lactating mares to support their overall health and milk production.
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6
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Ideal for providing all natural joint care supplement for horses in a pelleted form.
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7
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This product is ideal for supporting cellular repair, joint health, hoof health, and gut health in horses.
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8
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Ideal feed for various wildlife including deer, ducks, squirrels, turkeys, rabbits, geese, and more.
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9
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Ideal for women to take before, during, and after pregnancy as a multivitamin supplement containing essential vitamins and Omega-3 DHA.
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10
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CALPHORMIN PELLETS are ideal for promoting healthy growth, development, and overall well-being in a range of animal species.
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1. Purina Impact | Professional Mare & Foal Horse Feed | 50 Pound (50 Lb) Bag

This horse feed product has been specifically designed to meet the nutritional demands of breeding mares and growing foals. It contains added fat, which provides the necessary calories to support the energy requirements of breeding horses, while also promoting a healthy haircoat shine and bloom. The feed is formulated with controlled levels of starch and sugar, and does not contain any corn or corn-by products, making it a safe and healthy option for your horses.
High-quality protein is an essential component of this feed, and added amino acids such as lysine and methionine provide additional support for breeding mares and growing foals. The feed is also fortified with a carefully balanced blend of vitamins and minerals, which have been specifically chosen to meet the unique nutritional requirements of broodmares and growing horses.
This product has been formulated by Ph.D. equine nutritionists, who have researched and tested the ingredients to ensure that they provide optimal support for overall horse health and performance. Whether you have breeding mares or growing foals, this feed is an excellent choice for meeting their nutritional needs and supporting their growth and development.
2. Camelina Horse Oil: Essential Joint Supplement

Introducing Golden Balance, the perfect solution to enhance your horse's performance and boost their shine. This product provides an ideal ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids, promoting anti-inflammatory benefits. The Camelina Oil used in this product is grown and produced in Canada by Smart Earth, ensuring top-notch quality.
At Golden Balance, they hold themselves to the highest standards to deliver the best possible nutrition for your horses. This non-GMO false flax oil is all-natural, cold-pressed, and free from fillers. The company never compromises on quality and promises to offer only the best.
The product is simple to use and store. Each pump is mess-free and easy to dose, dispensing 1 oz. of oil for precise use. The no-mess pump also ensures that your tack room shelves remain spotless.
Golden Balance is not just a supplement, it's blooming nutrition for your horse. This horse joint supplement is rich in natural vitamin E and antioxidants, providing essential nutrients that support ulcer and arthritis, mood stability, and coat health.
Healthy weight gain is also a significant benefit of Golden Balance. It can be easily dispensed over your horse's normal feed, providing a tasty top dressing. For even greater flavor, you can let it soak, or you may feed it immediately.
3. Farnam Mare Plus Gestation & Lactation Supplement 5 Pounds, 40 Day Supply

This product is designed to help maintain the optimal body condition of pregnant and lactating mares. It contains a wide range of nutrients that are essential for the health of both the mares and their unborn or nursing foals. With its unique formulation, this product is specifically designed to support fetal development during the last trimester and lactation, helping to meet the demands of breeding, foaling, and lactation.
One of the key benefits of this product is that it compliments your mare's normal diet. It is available in easy-to-feed pellets, making it convenient to use and ensuring that your mare gets all the nutrients she needs without having to make any significant changes to her diet. Whether you are a professional breeder or a horse enthusiast, this product is an excellent choice for anyone looking to support the health and wellbeing of their mares and foals.
In terms of nutritional content, this product contains a range of vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients that are known to be important for the health of pregnant and lactating mares. These include protein, fiber, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, zinc, and selenium, among others. By providing your mares with these nutrients in the correct balance, you can help ensure that they maintain optimal body condition throughout pregnancy and lactation.
4. Purina® | Omolene #300® Mare & Foal Horse Feed | 50 Pounds (50 Lb) Bag

This product is a specially formulated horse feed that provides a complete and balanced nutrition for horses of all ages. It is designed to support pregnancy, lactation, and proper growth, ensuring that your horse stays healthy and strong.
One of the key features of this product is its use of Outlast Supplement, which helps to support gastric health and maintain proper pH levels in the digestive system. This helps to prevent digestive issues and ensures that your horse can digest their food properly.
In addition, this horse feed contains Purina Amplify high fat nuggets, which help to maintain body condition and promote a healthy appearance. These high-fat nuggets are packed with essential nutrients that are vital for maintaining a shiny coat and a healthy weight.
This horse feed also contains nutritious whole grains, which are a natural source of antioxidants, phytonutrients, and prebiotic fibers. These nutrients are important for maintaining overall health and preventing disease.
Finally, this horse feed is fortified with milk components, including amino acids and polysaccharides found in mare's milk. These nutrients are important for muscle growth and bone development, helping to ensure that your horse stays strong and healthy.
5. Farnam Mare Plus Gestation And Lactation Supplement, 3-Pound

If you're looking to keep your broodmares in peak physical condition during gestation, foaling, and lactation, then Mare Plus is the perfect solution for you. This supplement is enriched with a variety of essential vitamins and minerals that are crucial for maintaining the overall health of your mare.
Mare Plus is formulated with vitamins A, D-3, and E, which are essential for supporting your mare's immune system, vision, and overall well-being. Additionally, this supplement contains calcium, phosphorus, and iodine – important minerals that help support healthy bone development, energy metabolism, and thyroid function.
To ensure that your broodmares receive the full benefits of Mare Plus, it is recommended to start feeding the supplement 90 days before conception and continue feeding it year-round. This will provide your mares with the necessary nutrients they need to support a healthy pregnancy and foaling.
6. Mojo Joint Care: All-Natural Horse Supplement

Mojo Joint offers a pelleted formula that is made from the highest-quality ingredients available. Their product aims to provide horses with a supplement that can truly make a difference in their health and performance, without any excuses, just results.
Mojo Joint's formula is effective and balanced, with all the right ingredients to aid in joint inflammation, immune health, circulation, coat quality, and hoof integrity. The supplement is also safe for pregnant and lactating mares, making it a versatile option for horse owners. Mojo is great for immune responsiveness and bone density, which helps combat sickness and training-related injuries such as splints.
The powerful formula of Mojo Joint contains ingredients for joints, including CMO, HA, Glucosamine, MSM, and six more anti-inflammatories, all present to eradicate free radicals that degrade cartilage and joints over time. The high concentration of ingredients in their product makes it an affordable option to delay or space out more aggressive maintenance measures such as injections.
Using Mojo Joint's oral supplement is a practical solution to keep horses performing and feeling their best. The recommended dosage is one scoop a day for an average-sized horse, which is about 1000lbs. The product does not contain any substances restricted by USEF & FEI competitions, making it a suitable option for competitive horses. One 10 lbs bag contains enough supplement to last up to 90 days, providing excellent value for money.
Mojo Joint's founder started the company with one goal in mind, to create products that work. Derby Downs, LLC has been women-owned and operated for almost 20 years, and Mojo Joint is committed to tangible results by creating great products that contribute to the animals' quality of life. Overall, Mojo Joint's pelleted formula is a high-quality supplement that can help improve horses' overall health and performance.
7. Horse Xl: All-Natural Cellular Repair And Support

Equinety Horse XL is a high-performance equine nutrition supplement that can help boost injury repair in working and performance horses. It is a proprietary blend of branched essential amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. This supplement is safe for horses of all ages and sizes, including pregnant mares, and has been developed with the guidance of a veterinarian.
Made in the USA, Equinety Horse XL is 100% natural, non-GMO, and does not contain fillers, soy, sugar, starches, or artificial flavors. This makes it a safe and effective formula that supports horses' digestive and immune systems. With regular use, this supplement can also improve mental focus and responsiveness in horses.
One tub of Horse XL contains a 100-day supply, and one scoop daily is all you need for regular horses. For injured horses, you may need to give two scoops as advised by your veterinarian. Horse XL is a pituitary supplement, so there is no need to calculate dosage.
Equinety Horse XL is an excellent choice for horse owners looking to improve their horses' overall well-being while also promoting injury repair. With its veterinarian-approved formula, natural ingredients, and ease of use, this supplement is a must-have for any horse owner. Give your horse the boost it needs with Equinety Horse XL.
8. Wildlife Pro Feed – Non-Gmo, Perfect 25 Lb

The product being offered is a top-quality blend of Non-GMO cracked corn, wheat, barley, roasted soybean, and black oil sunflower seeds, sourced from Ernst Grain & Livestock, a reputable 7th generation family farm. This blend is specifically designed to cater to the dietary needs of wild critters, making it the perfect choice for those who want to attract a range of wildlife to their outdoor space.
Whether you choose to feed the blend in a pile or in feeders, the animals are sure to be drawn to its irresistible aroma and taste. The blend has been tested free of glyphosate, ensuring that the animals receive a healthy and natural diet that does not contain harmful chemicals.
Ernst Grain & Livestock takes great pride in providing high-quality products, and this blend is no exception. With its carefully selected ingredients, it offers a nutritious and delicious meal for a variety of wild critters, from squirrels and chipmunks to birds and deer.
9. Prenatal Power: Complete Daily Multivitamin For Women.

Introducing the ultimate solution for women planning to conceive, expectant mothers, and nursing moms – a complete prenatal multivitamin that provides nutritional support before, during, and after pregnancy. This specially formulated supplement has been designed to cater to the unique nutritional requirements of women during this crucial period in their lives.
Containing key nutrients like folic acid, DHA, iron, and calcium, all packed into one easy-to-swallow soft gel, this supplement is a must-have for any woman looking to achieve optimal health during pregnancy. With 100% of the daily value of folic acid, you can be sure that you and your baby are getting the necessary nutrients to support healthy fetal development.
This OBGYN recommended prenatal brand is also gluten-free and free from artificial sweeteners, artificial flavors, wheat, and dairy. This makes it an ideal choice for women with dietary restrictions or allergies.
It's important to note that exposure to heat or sunlight may cause melting or damage to the product, so customers are advised to be available during delivery to ensure the product's integrity.
10. Calphormin Pellets – 22 Lb

This product is designed to provide your mare and growing foal with the necessary nutritional resources to help prevent Developmental Orthopedic Disease (DOD). By balancing the diet with essential nutrients critical to proper skeletal development, including protein, energy, calcium, phosphorous, copper, zinc, and lysine, this product supports optimum skeletal development and production of sound and robust athletic horses.
In addition, this product provides a balanced and palatable selection of minerals to ensure your horse receives all the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and development.
This product is recommended for pregnant mares and young stock, making it an essential addition to any horse owner's feeding program. With its unique blend of nutrients and balanced formulation, this product ensures your horse receives all the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and development.
Best Feed For Pregnant Mares FAQs
Can a pregnant mare be fed treats or snacks?
Yes, a pregnant mare can be fed treats or snacks, but it is important to do so in moderation and with consideration to her overall diet and health. Treats or snacks should not make up a significant portion of the mare's daily intake of food. It is important to consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to determine the appropriate feeding plan for a pregnant mare.
Some suitable treats or snacks for a pregnant mare include small pieces of apple, carrot or beet, as well as commercial horse treats. It is important to avoid giving the mare any treats that contain ingredients that could be harmful to her or her developing foal, such as excessive sugar or caffeine.
It is also important to consider the mare's body condition and weight during pregnancy. Overfeeding with treats or snacks can lead to excessive weight gain, which can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy and foaling. Regular exercise and monitoring of the mare's body condition can help to ensure a healthy pregnancy and foaling.
Can pregnant mares be fed a high-protein diet?
It is recommended to provide pregnant mares with a balanced diet that meets their nutritional requirements, rather than a high-protein diet. While protein is an essential nutrient for pregnant mares, excessive protein intake can cause health problems such as kidney damage, developmental issues in the fetus, and increased risk of metabolic disorders.
A pregnant mare's diet should consist of good quality hay or pasture, along with a balanced grain ration designed for pregnant mares. The grain ration should provide adequate levels of protein, vitamins, and minerals, including calcium and phosphorus, which are crucial for skeletal development in the fetus.
It is important to consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to determine the appropriate diet for a pregnant mare based on her individual needs, stage of pregnancy, and level of activity. This will ensure that the mare receives the necessary nutrients for a healthy pregnancy and foal development, without risking any potential health problems associated with excessive protein intake.
How much feed should a pregnant mare be given?
The amount of feed a pregnant mare needs depends on several factors such as her weight, body condition, and stage of pregnancy. As a general rule, a pregnant mare should be fed high-quality forage, such as hay or pasture, and a balanced concentrate feed that contains essential nutrients.
During the first two trimesters, the mare's nutrient requirements are similar to those of a non-pregnant mare of the same weight. However, in the last trimester, the mare's nutrient requirements increase significantly as the foal grows rapidly.
A pregnant mare should be fed according to her body weight, and it is recommended that she receives between 1.5% and 2% of her body weight in feed per day. This should be divided into several smaller meals throughout the day to prevent overloading the digestive system.
It is essential to monitor the mare's body condition throughout pregnancy to ensure that she is not becoming too overweight or underweight. It is also advisable to consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to develop a feeding plan that meets the specific needs of the pregnant mare.
How often should pregnant mares be fed?
Pregnant mares require a well-balanced diet to ensure the healthy growth and development of the foal. The frequency and amount of feed will depend on the mare's body condition, stage of pregnancy, and activity level. Typically, pregnant mares should be fed at least three times a day, with access to clean water at all times. During the first two trimesters, the mare's energy requirement is relatively low, and she can be fed a maintenance diet with adequate protein and minerals. However, during the last trimester, the mare's energy requirement increases significantly, and she should be fed a diet high in energy, protein, and minerals. It is recommended to consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to develop a feeding program that meets the specific needs of the pregnant mare. In addition to a balanced diet, pregnant mares should also receive regular veterinary care and exercise to maintain their health and well-being.
Is there a specific brand or type of feed recommended for pregnant mares?
Yes, there are specific brands and types of feed that are recommended for pregnant mares. Pregnant mares have specific nutritional needs that vary depending on the stage of pregnancy they are in. During the first two-thirds of pregnancy, mares should be fed a diet that is high in protein, vitamins, and minerals to support the developing fetus. During the last trimester, the mare's energy needs increase, and she may require more calories to maintain her weight and support the growth of the fetus.
Some popular brands of feed that are recommended for pregnant mares include Purina Equine Senior, Nutrena SafeChoice Mare & Foal, and Triple Crown Growth. These feeds are formulated specifically for pregnant mares and contain a balance of protein, vitamins, and minerals to support the mare and her developing fetus. It is important to consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to determine the best feed for your pregnant mare based on her individual needs and stage of pregnancy.
Should pregnant mares be fed more hay or grain?
During pregnancy, mares have increased nutritional requirements to support the growth and development of the foal. However, the type and amount of feed given to pregnant mares will depend on their individual needs and the stage of pregnancy. Generally, pregnant mares are fed more hay than grain as hay provides the necessary fiber for gut health and promotes healthy weight gain. It is recommended that pregnant mares receive at least 1.5% to 2% of their body weight in forage per day, preferably high-quality hay. However, grain may also be added to the diet in small amounts to provide additional calories, protein, and essential nutrients. The amount of grain given should be carefully monitored to avoid overfeeding, which can lead to obesity and other health issues. It is important to consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to ensure that pregnant mares receive a balanced diet that meets their specific nutritional needs.
What are the potential risks of feeding a pregnant mare an inadequate or inappropriate diet?
Feeding a pregnant mare an inadequate or inappropriate diet can have various potential risks. During pregnancy, mares have increased nutritional requirements for the healthy growth and development of the fetus. An inadequate diet can lead to various complications, including a higher risk of abortion, stillbirth, or the birth of a weak foal.
The mare may also suffer from malnutrition, which can lead to poor body condition, compromised immune system, and reduced milk production. The mare may also suffer from metabolic disorders such as hyperlipemia, which can be fatal in severe cases.
Moreover, an inappropriate diet can lead to an imbalanced intake of essential nutrients such as protein, vitamins, and minerals, leading to developmental problems in the fetus. A diet high in carbohydrates or starch can increase the risk of developmental orthopedic disease in the foal.
Therefore, it is essential to provide a balanced and appropriate diet to pregnant mares to ensure the health and well-being of both the mare and the developing fetus. Consulting a veterinarian or equine nutritionist can help in formulating a proper diet plan based on the mare's individual needs.
What is the best feed for pregnant mares?
The best feed for pregnant mares is one that provides the necessary nutrients for both the mare and the developing foal. It's important to remember that a mare's nutritional needs increase during pregnancy and lactation, so a balanced and high-quality diet is crucial.
A good option is a feed specifically formulated for pregnant mares, which typically contains a balance of protein, energy, vitamins, and minerals. These feeds are designed to support the mare's health, as well as the growth and development of the foal.
It's also important to provide plenty of high-quality forage, such as hay, which can help maintain the mare's digestive health and provide additional nutrients. Access to fresh, clean water is also essential.
It's recommended to work with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to develop a feeding plan that meets the individual needs of your pregnant mare. They can help assess the mare's body condition, evaluate her nutritional requirements, and make recommendations for a balanced and appropriate diet.
What nutrients should be included in a pregnant mare's feed?
A pregnant mare requires a well-balanced and nutrient-dense diet to support the development of the fetus and maintain her own health. The mare's feed should contain a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Protein is essential for the development of the fetus, and the mare's diet should contain at least 12-14% protein. Carbohydrates provide the energy needed to support the mare's increased metabolism and growing fetus. Fats are also important as they provide concentrated energy and help to maintain the mare's body condition.
Vitamins and minerals are also essential for the mare's health and the development of the fetus. Calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium are important for skeletal development, while copper, zinc, and selenium are important for overall health and immune function.
In addition to a balanced diet, a pregnant mare should have access to clean water at all times and be fed in small, frequent meals throughout the day to avoid overloading the digestive system. It is important to work with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to develop a feeding plan tailored to the mare's specific needs.
What supplements should be added to a pregnant mare's diet?
Pregnancy is a critical time for mares, and proper nutrition is essential for the health of both the mare and the developing foal. The mare's diet should be well-balanced and provide all the necessary nutrients, including protein, vitamins, minerals, and energy.
Supplements that should be added to a pregnant mare's diet include:
1. Calcium and phosphorus: These minerals are essential for the development of the foal's bones and teeth. A calcium-to-phosphorus ratio of 2:1 should be maintained.
2. Vitamin E and selenium: These antioxidants help protect the mare and foal from oxidative damage and support the immune system.
3. Omega-3 fatty acids: These essential fatty acids are important for the development of the foal's nervous system and eyesight.
4. B-vitamins: These vitamins are important for energy metabolism and the development of the nervous system.
It's important to note that each mare's nutritional needs may differ based on her individual circumstances. Consulting with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist can help determine the appropriate supplements and feeding regimen for a pregnant mare.