Managing the reproductive cycle of mares can be a challenge for horse owners and breeders, especially when dealing with hormonal imbalances or behaviors that make handling difficult. Regu-Mate (altrenogest) has long been a go-to solution for regulating estrus in mares, helping to suppress their heat cycle and maintain a calm demeanor.
However, not every horse owner wants to use Regu-Mate, whether due to health concerns, cost, or personal preference. Fortunately, there are several effective alternatives to Regu-Mate for mares that offer similar benefits. This article will explore some of the best options available.
1. Marble Insertion (Intrauterine Device)
Alternative to Regu-mate for mares is the insertion of a glass or plastic marble into the mare’s uterus. This method mimics the presence of a pregnancy and effectively suppresses the estrous cycle by tricking the body into thinking it is already pregnant. The device is typically inserted by a veterinarian after the mare ovulates, and the effects can last for several months.
Advantages:
Long-lasting (can be effective for up to 90 days).
Non-hormonal and drug-free option.
Cost-effective compared to long-term use of hormone treatments.
Disadvantages:
Not effective for all mares.
Risk of the marble being expelled, which would require re-insertion.
It may not provide 100% suppression of estrus in every case.
2. Oxytocin Injections
Oxytocin, commonly used to induce labor in horses, can also be used to extend the lifespan of the corpus luteum, which helps suppress estrus in mares. Administering oxytocin injections during the luteal phase of the mare’s cycle (the period after ovulation) can help maintain hormone levels that prevent the mare from going back into heat.
Advantages:
Relatively inexpensive and easy to administer.
Non-hormonal, reducing the risk of side effects.
Safe for most mares when used under veterinary supervision.
Disadvantages:
Requires precise timing and regular administration (daily injections for 10-14 days).
It may not work for all mares.
Some mares may react negatively to frequent injections.
3. Herbal Supplements
For horse owners looking for natural alternatives, herbal supplements designed to balance hormones and calm the mare’s demeanor during heat cycles have gained popularity. Products such as Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus) and raspberry leaf supplements are widely used for mares experiencing mood swings or discomfort during estrus. These supplements are believed to help regulate the endocrine system and promote hormonal balance.
Advantages:
Non-invasive, natural option.
It may improve general well-being and temperament without hormonal interference.
Often available in palatable formulations (powders, pellets).
Disadvantages:
Efficacy varies from mare to mare; some may not respond.
Typically slower to show results compared to hormonal treatments.
Lack of formal scientific studies to verify long-term effectiveness.
4. Progesterone-Based Implants
Similar to Regu-Mate, progesterone-based implants offer hormonal control over a mare’s reproductive cycle by mimicking the effects of the corpus luteum. These implants, such as Deslorelin or Norgestomet, are typically inserted under the skin by a veterinarian and provide slow-release progesterone to suppress estrus. These methods are often used in mares that are part of a breeding program but are not yet ready to be bred.
Advantages:
Long-lasting solution with less frequent intervention compared to daily treatments like Regu-Mate.
Effectively suppresses heat behavior and hormonal cycling.
Convenient for mares that cannot be managed daily.
Disadvantages:
Hormonal treatment may not be suitable for mares with certain health conditions.
Requires veterinary insertion and periodic checks to ensure efficacy.
Higher cost compared to some alternatives.
5. Spaying (Ovariectomy)
Ovariectomy, or the surgical removal of a mare’s ovaries, is a permanent solution to estrus-related issues. This procedure completely eliminates the heat cycle and can be considered for mares that are not intended for breeding. While it is an invasive procedure, it can offer a long-term solution for managing difficult behaviors associated with estrus.
Advantages:
Permanent elimination of heat cycles and related behavioral issues.
Once completed, no ongoing hormone treatments or medications are needed.
Useful for mares with severe hormonal issues or handling difficulties.
Disadvantages:
Invasive surgical procedure with associated risks.
Irreversible, so it is not an option for mares that may be bred in the future.
Longer recovery time compared to non-surgical alternatives.
6. GnRH Vaccination
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) vaccination is a newer method used to suppress estrus in mares by inhibiting the release of hormones that trigger the heat cycle. The vaccine, known as Equityâ„¢, is injected into the mare and can suppress estrus for several months. This method works by reducing the production of estrogen and progesterone, thereby preventing the mare from going into heat.
Advantages:
Long-lasting effects (up to 12 months).
Safe and reversible, allowing mares to return to normal cycling after the vaccine wears off.
Non-surgical and requires fewer interventions compared to some other methods.
Disadvantages:
Availability may be limited depending on the region.
Initial costs may be higher than other temporary alternatives.
Some mares may require booster doses to maintain suppression.
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Choose the Right Alternative to Regu-Mate
Choosing the right alternative to Regu-Mate depends on your mare’s specific needs, your budget, and whether you prefer hormonal, non-hormonal, or natural options. While Regu-Mate remains a popular and effective choice for managing estrus, there are several alternatives available that can provide similar benefits.
Marble insertion, oxytocin injections, herbal supplements, progesterone implants, spaying, and GnRH vaccination all offer unique advantages, depending on your goals and your mare’s individual response. Always consult with a veterinarian to determine the best solution for your mare, especially when considering hormonal treatments or surgical options.