Prenatal nutrition is very effective in reducing the incidence of nutrition-related D.O.D.. By supplying the pregnant mare with appropriate nutrient levels, the foal should be born with sufficient body stores of minerals to supply it through the first two months of life.

Critical evaluation of the mares prenatal nutrition with reference to all nutrients will help ensure the grain ration is suited to the forage fed (i.e. balance the ration).

Many times the pregnant mare does not need extra calories that are in grain mixes. When this true, a concentrated ration balancer such as Gro 'N Win (fed with grass hay) or Alfa Gro 'N Win (fed with alfalfa) is recommended. These products provide mineral and vitamin levels, without extra calories.