Effects of restrictive suckling on postpartum reproductive performance in mares

Area of Science:

• Equine Reproduction
• Animal Science
• Veterinary Medicine

Background:

• Postpartum reproductive performance in mares is crucial for breeding efficiency.
• Nursing behavior significantly influences the mare's return to estrus and ovulation.
• Understanding management impacts on mare reproduction and foal development is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of a restricted suckling regimen on postpartum reproductive parameters in Quarter Horse mares.
• To assess the impact of restricted suckling on foal growth and development.

Main Methods:

• A 2-year study involving 30 Quarter Horse mares and their foals.
• Treatment group: mares permitted nursing for four 1-hour periods daily.
• Control group: mares with unrestricted nursing access.

Main Results:

• Mares in the restricted suckling group exhibited earlier estrus and ovulation in the first year (P<0.01), but not the second.
• Plasma progesterone levels were similar between groups and remained low (<1 ng/ml) until ovulation.
• Conception rates were not significantly affected by the treatment, though some mares with prior estrus issues conceived under restricted suckling.

Conclusions:

• Restricted suckling may accelerate postpartum ovulation in mares, particularly in the initial year of study.
• The management strategy did not negatively affect foal growth and development.
• This approach shows promise for enhancing mare reproductive efficiency without compromising foal health.