1. Contact a veterinarian. It's always best to consult with a veterinarian when your Howrse is pregnant or giving birth. They can provide expert guidance and care to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and the foal.
2. Prepare the birthing area. Make sure the birthing area is clean, dry, and quiet. It should be free of any obstacles that could injure the mare or the foal. The ideal temperature for the birthing area is between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Monitor your Howrse's behavior. In the days and hours leading up to birth, your Howrse may exhibit certain behaviors, such as:
- Nesting (moving straw or bedding around)
- Udder swelling
- Thick, stringy discharge from the vulva
- Frequent urination
- Restlessness
- Decreased appetite
- Colic (abdominal pain)
4. Assist with the birth. If you are present when your Howrse gives birth, you may be able to assist with the process. However, it is important to only intervene if necessary. The mare will typically take care of the birth on her own.
5. Care for the foal. Once the foal is born, it is important to provide proper care. This includes:
- Ensuring that the foal nurses within the first few hours after birth
- Providing a warm and dry environment
- Offering colostrum (the first milk produced by the mare) as soon as possible
- Contacting your veterinarian for a wellness check