THE BREEDING OF BORSES 111 



rarely fail. The udder often becomes greatly distended some 

 time before foaling, but the teats seldom fill out full and plump 

 to the end more than two or three days before the foal is born. 

 About one week or ten days before foaling, there is a marked 

 shrinking or falHng away of the muscular parts at the top of the 

 buttocks back of the hips. Another sign is the appearance of 

 the wax on the ends of the teats. This generally appears not 

 earlier than three days before the foal comefe. In some cases, 

 however, the foal may be born without any of these signs. 



Fig. 47. — A Farm Group op French Draft Horses. This breed was 

 developed in France and is similar to the Percheron. 



About the three hundred and thirtieth day, or when the mare 

 begins to show signs, the work should be much lightened and 

 the grain ration reduced, although for best results the mare 

 should be kept at light work up to the day of foaling. Bran 

 mash will prove very beneficial now, as it will keep the bowels 

 in good condition and allay any tendency to feverishness. She 

 should have a roomy, well-lighted, and ventilated box stall, 

 thoroughly clean and freshly bedded. 



If birth is easy and normal, let both mare and foal alone. 

 They will come through the ordeal all right. It may be neces- 

 sary that a caretaker be near by at night to render assistance if 



