The True Costs Of Breeding Your Mare

Many riders want the opportunity to raise a foal from the ground up. They have the perfect mare. She's got impeccable bloodlines, conformation, and even a show record. The reality is breeding can be a costly endeavor. It also comes with a fair share of risks both to the mare and newborn foal. Make sure to evaluate your budget and risk level before you take the plunge.

Breeding Your Mare

Keep in mind these costs will vary, depending on how your mare is bred, your location, the stud you choose, among many other factors.

Your veterinarian should perform a reproductive tract exam and uterine culture. This will be around $200. Your mare should be up-to-date on their vaccinations too- usually $50+.

The stud fee that you pay is only the beginning of costs. It can range greatly from $500 to over $5,000. There will also be a booking fee, regardless of if you choose artificial insemination (AI) or live cover.

Prior to AI, your mare will need to be closely monitor with ultrasounds. This can be $70-$100 per visit. This helps the stud's owner to determine when to collect and ship the semen. Some mare owners choose to board at the vet clinic. This ensures that ovulation isn't missed. Board is usually around $25 a day.

After insemination, additional vet visits will be necessary. They usually take place 30 days after breeding and then later on. Ultrasounds ($70-$100) can confirm a successful pregnancy.

Generally, it costs anywhere from $300 to more than $600 per estrus cycle. The average conception rate with AI is 60%. In two to three cycles, 90% of mares are successfully impregnated.

Mares will also require additional nutrition, especially during their last trimester.

Foaling

It can be risky to let your horse foal unattended. Most will have a vet on call or send their mare to a foaling facility. This cost can range from $300-$500, plus board. The foal will require vaccines and will usually need to be gelded if a colt. There can also be registration fees.

Are you truly ready for the all the costs associated with breeding? Don't forget to factor in potential issues that develop, such as twin embryos or inflammation after breeding. There's nothing cheap about breeding your mare. You'll need to weigh your options!