Theriogenology Question of the Month

A 16-year-old 450-kg Italian Saddle Horse maiden mare, retired from sport activity for over a year, was evaluated for monitoring of the estrous cycle for breeding purposes. The mare was housed in an individual paddock (10 X 10 m), was fed with polyphyte hay, and had water access ad libitum. No abnormalities were observed at clinical examination. During reproductive soundness evaluation, the conformation of the perineal region was found to be clinically normal. Transrectal palpation of the cervix, uterus, and right ovary revealed no abnormalities. However, transrectal palpation revealed an enlarged left ovary with irregular shape, surface, and consistency.