Mare coming into season with discharge, normal?

[user 3234]

[SIZE=18pt]I noticed my 10 year old maiden mare has had a small amount of a dark discharge from her vulva. It does not smell and she does not have any itching or discomfort. Is this normal in the spring when mares come into season?[/SIZE]

 

[amysue]

Some mares will develop a bit of discharge when they come into season as their homones fluctuate. It should be fine, but if it becomes more severe or develops an odor call the vet to be on the safe side. Its probably normal, but some mares (depending on their conformation) pool urine and can easily develop uterine or genital tract infections even if they have never been bred. I hadvan OTTB with a short back causing her to be sunken and thus pool urine and excrete discharge when in heat.

 

[user 3234]

Thanks, more curious than concern.