Every horse owner or rider has owned or heard stories about 'moody mares'. Mares can be seen as unpredictable, aggressive and more challenging than geldings, which can be caused by cycling hormone levels...
A hormonal mare refers to a female horse that is experiencing changes in behavior and temperament due to hormonal fluctuations. The reproductive cycle of mares is controlled by hormones, and they can become more sensitive, irritable, and unpredictable when they are in heat (oestrus).
During the oestrus cycle, mares produce higher levels of oestrogen, which can cause them to exhibit aggressive or excitable behaviour, such as biting, kicking, or refusing to be handled. Some mares may also become more vocal or restless during this time.
Not all mares will exhibit the same behaviour during their cycles, and some may be more manageable than others. Additionally, hormonal imbalances or medical conditions can also affect a mare's behaviour, so it is always a good idea to consult with a veterinarian if you notice any sudden changes in your mare's temperament.
It's important to note that not all mares will exhibit changed behaviour during their hormonal cycles, and some may be more manageable than others. Additionally, other factors such as stress or pain may also contribute to changes in a mare's behaviour. If you are concerned about your mare's behaviour, it's always a good idea to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues.
Hormonal changes can affect a mare's behaviour and temperament in several ways. Here are some common behaviours that may be observed in a hormonal mare:
- Increased Aggression: They may exhibit aggressive behaviour towards other horses or people. They may bite, kick or act irritable, particularly if they are teased by stallions or other mares.
- Vocalisation: Hormonal mares may be more vocal than usual, whinnying or neighing loudly. They may also "squeal" when approached by a stallion or during breeding.
- Restlessness: Mares in heat may be more restless than usual, pacing or circling in their stalls or pasture. They may also have difficulty standing still or may exhibit nervous behaviour such as pawing or tossing their head.
- Discomfort: Some mares may experience discomfort during their oestrus cycle, particularly if they have cramping or other physical symptoms. This discomfort may cause them to be more irritable or sensitive to touch.
McDowells Products
The mixture includes the herbs:- Chaste Tree , Pulsatilla, Buchu, Vervain, Passion Flower , Ziziphus with Cerrato, Cherry Plum, Heather, Holly, Mimulus, Rock Rose, Scleranthus, Walnut.
McDowells Hormonal Mare formula contains herbs traditionally used to support the endocrine system and may assist in normalising hormonal glands, generally calm the nervous system and may reduce any tense, flighty and fidgety behaviour.
The extracts are formulated to nourish and calm any nervous disposition. It contains 'Nervines' or nervous system tonics to allow change to a nervy horse's nature and habit patterns of reaction to certain circumstances.
Safe for the stomach
100% chemical free
Safe to give long term
Can be added to feed
