*Photos may not be copied without permission!!*
You can use Predict-A-Mare testing kits or generic water hardness testing strips which have a total of 4-5 squares all the same color that change when the calcium in the milk spikes close to foaling. This type tests only for the calcium (hardness) in the milk and most mares will only test high in calcium when close to foaling. But sometimes a mare (like one of mine) will show all 5 squares changing within seconds (which according to the instructions she should foal within 24 hours) for several days to a week prior to foaling. It's enough to wear out even the most eager and excited foaling attendant!
A breeder told me last year about testing both hardness (calcium) and PH of the milk for much more accurate results. Details on this type of test is below. I have had 100% accuracy with this test! Some breeders like to use this test along with the Test described above, use whatever works for you!
-Pool/Spa water Test Strips found at Walmart or Pool supply store
-Distilled Water
-Sterile Containers
-Sterile Syringes
*I use the syringe case to mix the milk & distilled water, it's perfect size for dipping the strips!*
*Be sure to wash/rinse containers in distilled water, because contamination
from tap water can give a false result.
1. Collect 1/4-1cc (.25-1cc) milk in a clean container/cup from the mare. Don't Overmilk!
2. In a seperate container/cup add milk and dilute with distilled water according to chart below:
1cc milk to 3cc distilled water
1/2cc(.50cc) milk to 1.5cc distilled water
1/4cc(.25cc) milk to .75cc distilled water
3. Gently invert milk/water to mix
4. Dip test strip in mixture for a few seconds, remove and don't shake strip.
5. Wait 1 minute for results, compare to chart on box.
You are looking for the Calcium/Hardness to test high,
(my mares have usually tested at 200 or 400)
And the PH to drop low, the lowest on the scale
the Walmart brand the lowest is 6.4 for PH.
*The PH can drop in one day, so if the mare tests in the middle of the scale in the morning, if she is showing other signs (udder full, etc) I would test again in the evening, because they can change fast. Know your mare and use the test strips along with observation and the other signs of foaling on previous pages.
Good Luck!!
See photo examples below
First Square: Hardness
Dark Blue 0 (no calcium)
Third Square: PH
Pink or 8.4 (high, not close to foaling)
First Square: Hardness
Dark Purple 400 (calcium)
Third Square: PH
very light orange or 6.4 (as low as it goes, close to foaling!)
Same strip on the right with the scale.
Crayonbox Miniature Horse Foals