INDUCTION OF MOTHERHOOD IN MARES AS A STRATEGY FOR ADOPTION OF ORPHANED FOALS: LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Induction of maternity in non-foaling mares has been consolidated as an alternative strategy for the management of orphan foals. This practice enables both the induction of lactation and the expression of maternal behavior, which are essential for the nutritional, immunological, and behavioral development of the neonate. This literature review addresses the physiological and endocrine aspects involved in equine lactation, the main protocols used for induction, as well as the implications of this technique on animal welfare and foal survival. It is concluded that maternity induction is a highly relevant tool for equine clinical practice and reproduction, although it still presents limitations regarding the standardization of protocols and variability in mares’ responses.