Growth of the foetus begins from the point of conception, and gradually accelerates so that the most rapid development occurs during the final trimester (third) of pregnancy. Inadequate nutrition during pregnancy has been attributed to prolonged gestation, developmental abnormalities and low birth weights. It is essential for the mare to receive the optimum level of vitamins, minerals and amino acids to support growth of the foetus, which forage alone may not provide. For example, research by Firth in New Zealand has shown that supplementing the mare with copper during pregnancy resulted in increased copper in the foal’s liver at 4 to 10 days of age compared to mares and foals only allowed access to pasture.
 
Although inadequate nutrition for the brood mare may not cause immediate problems, the mare’s reserves can become depleted over time. Long term nutrient deficiencies or shortfalls can affect the development of subsequent foals. Stud Balancer supplies a balance of essential nutrients without the calories that a traditional stud mix or cube would provide.
 
As pregnancy progresses, the mare may experience a reduction in appetite as less space is available for her digestive system to accommodate large meals. Stud Balancer provides a balanced diet in a very small volume of feed, so is ideal for the pregnant mare as feeding in small volumes helps to reduce the risk of colic. Alternatively, feeding small quantities frequently of No.7 Stud Mix or No.3 Stud Cubes can be used to promote or maintain the mare’s bodyweight.
The health of the mare’s placenta is crucial to the transfer of nutrients from the mare to the foetus. Older mares and those suffering from placentitis may have a reduced capacity to pass on nutrients even if fed a balanced diet.

Over-feeding the mare will not produce a foal with a higher birth weight, but is more likely to increase the risk of problems during foaling.