Blood Work ?

[Hayburner]

My new mare is quite a pistol when she's in season - at times - she's un-rideable for me. Her brain is just out there. She'll be fine in her stall but bring her out to lunge her and she's a nut case and a sweated mess. She did have a foal last May so maybe her hormones are still out of whack. Her udders also never really went back to a totally shrunken state. When she's in season they do seem to get a little bigger.

She gets very little grain ( low carb) , lots of hay - but, probably not super high quality. I did put her on Triple Crown Omega Max - golden flax and also a double dose of Mare Magic. I don't want to overload her with unnecessary supplements, but I'd like a willing and sane partner.

I'd like the vet to run some blood work to see if she's missing or low on any key vitamins/minerals. Not only from a moody mare point, but also because of how little grain she gets.

What tests should he run to make sure I am meeting her nutritional needs?

Thanks !

[Fatcat]

I'd say ask your vet. However, in our area we need to test for selenium as we're in a deficient region. Your vet ought to know what bloodwork to check for basic nutrient deficiencies.

[Koolkat]

She may be physically uncomfortable (the way some people are) when her hormones are in that state. I had an Arab mare that was very uncomfortable when cycling, would squeal/kick out when asked for transitions, etc.

[Hayburner]

Thanks Koolkat I have thought that could be an issue too. Especially since her udders still get a little larger.

I a, having the vet come to see if she has low grade mastitis and also get some nu,bears on her Vit E, selenium, magnesium and whatever else he suggests.

[Koolkat]

My mare would literally squeal when asked for a canter transition. . . .