Does My Mare Think a Miniature Horse is Her Baby?

In response to a reader question Dr. Nancy Diehl shares insight on equine maternal instincts, foal stealing, and more.

Posted by Nancy Diehl, VMD, MS | Apr 23, 2015 | Behavior, Commentary, Equine Behavior Commentary Series, Foal Care, Mare Care

Does My Mare Think a Miniature Horse is Her Baby?

Q: A Miniature Horse recently moved to my barn, and my 6-year-old mare is absolutely infatuated with him. We joke that she thinks he’s her “baby.” Is this purely anthropomorphizing, or do some mares have a maternal desire or instinct?

A: This question opens up a lot of avenues to interesting equine behaviors. I can’t say for sure that your mare isn’t showing any maternal behaviors toward this Miniature. However, I would find it unlikely that she’s mistaking a mature, but very small, horse f

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About The Author

Nancy Diehl, VMD, MS

Prior to attending veterinary school, Dr. Nancy Diehl completed a master’s degree in animal science while studying stallion sexual behavior. Later, she completed a residency in large animal internal medicine at the University of Pennsylvania’s New Bolton Center and worked in equine practices in Missouri and Pennsylvania. Diehl also spent six years on faculty at Penn State, where she taught equine science and behavior courses and advised graduate students completing equine behavior research. Additionally, Diehl has co-authored scientific papers on stallion behavior, early intensive handling of foals, and feral horse contraception. Currently she is a practicing veterinarian in central Pennsylvania.