Phantom pregnancy?

[algy666]

One of my friends thinks her mare might be pregnant, she's had her since April '08 and she'd been used as a broodmare before she bought her. She's a 7 y.o. gypsy cob.

Recently she's been really touchy about her belly, lactating, rolling/lying down more than usual and seems to have changed shape.

The vet hasn't actually seen her; he said either it could be a phantom or she is actually pregnant, but phantoms are uncommon at this time of year (this was in early December).

Anyone got any thoughts or experience they can share?

Thanks

 

[AndyPandy]

Phantom pregnancies/pseudopregnancies in the horse are fairly unusual in nonbred mares, and are seen more where the conceptus has failed/died at some point. Pseudopregnancies also only tend to last 1-2 months, and do not generally lead to lactation, or the other symptoms you mention.

Galactorrhea (inappropriate lactation) does occur sometimes in adult mares with no history of pregnancy... but not together with the other symptoms.

I would get the vet to check her asap... as if the mare was bred before your friend got her, she could be due anytime!

Good luck!

 

[algy666]

Vet's been out with the extra large rubber gloves, and she's not in foal.

Friend very relieved