A young mare represents a distinct stage in a female horse’s life, bridging the gap between dependent foalhood and the full maturity of an adult mare. This period is marked by significant physical development and the shaping of their future temperament and capabilities. Understanding the unique needs of a young mare during this time is paramount for fostering a well-adjusted and healthy equine companion.
What Defines a Young Mare
A young mare is typically a female horse from weaning, around 6 to 12 months, up to three or four years old. During this period, they transition from a “weanling” to a “yearling” after one year. While some fillies can reach sexual maturity as early as 9 to 10 months, most attain it between 12 and 15 months, though breeding at such a young age is discouraged due to ongoing physical development.
This developmental phase involves rapid physical changes. At six months, a young horse may reach about 46% of its mature weight and 84% of its mature height, progressing to 65% of mature weight and 94% of mature height by 12 months. By two years, horses typically achieve 90% of their mature body weight and 95% of their wither height. Skeletal growth is ongoing, with various growth plates, such as those in the lower limbs, fusing at different rates; for instance, cannon bones fuse by 18 months, and some vertebral growth plates may not fully close until five or six years of age.
Essential Care and Nutrition
The nutritional needs of a young mare are higher than those of an adult horse due to ongoing growth. A balanced diet is necessary, providing adequate energy, protein, and minerals to support the formation of bone, muscle, and other tissues. Forage should be readily available, but it often needs to be supplemented with specially formulated youngstock feeds or balancers to ensure sufficient vitamins and minerals.
Key minerals like calcium and phosphorus are important for bone development, with a recommended dietary ratio of 1.5-2 parts calcium to 1 part phosphorus. Copper and zinc are necessary micro-minerals for healthy bone, joint, and collagen formation. Routine veterinary care, including regular deworming, vaccinations, and dental checks, is important. Hoof care, including regular trimming, is important during this growth phase to support correct bone and hoof formation and to address any conformational issues early.
Behavior and Early Training
Young mares exhibit natural curiosity and playfulness, often engaging in interactions within their herd to learn social hierarchies. They may test boundaries with other horses and human handlers. Early training focuses on groundwork and developing good manners.
Training sessions should be brief and consistent, emphasizing positive reinforcement. Foundational skills include leading quietly, standing tied, and accepting handling for grooming, veterinary procedures, and farrier work. Desensitization to various objects and environments is also important, gradually preparing them for future riding or handling. While some physical training might begin around two years of age, such as carrying a bit or saddle, actual riding is typically deferred until they are three or four years old to allow for full physical maturity.