What is a problem mare ?
A mare should be regarded as a potential problem if she fails to conceive to a fertile stallion on a well managed breeding farm on three or more cycles in one season. There are many reasons mares may become problems. For example, mares failing to exhibit oestrus in the breeding season may have a granulosa theca cell tumour, gonadal dysgenesis, pituitary adenoma, or they may be pseudopregnant, unknowingly pregnant, or in anoestrus. However, by far the most common type of problem mare presented are mares with persistent, unidentified or inappropriately treated uterine infections. Examination of a problem mare should include most of the following: History-The prognosis for mares barren 3 years or more is always guarded provided they come from well managed breeding farms. Regardless of the number of years barren, we have more success in mares less than 18 years old. Physical Condition-Body condition is related to timing and recrudescence to cyclicity, while disease and chronic pain affect
