Investigating the suitability of a transponder-based birth monitoring system attached to the vulva of a mare

Abstract

Background and Aim: In horse breeding, birth monitoring is an important factor in minimizing losses during parturition. Although different birth monitoring systems are available for this purpose, the current literature lacks systematic suitability analyses. This study aimed to address this gap in the literature. In order to achieve this, we examined a large number of foaling mares to assess the suitability of a transponder-based birth monitoring system attached to the vulva. Materials and Methods: Seventy warmblood mares were observed during foaling, and 86 foals were born during the foaling seasons of 2021 and 2022. Video surveillance in the foaling stable provided video recordings of births. This allowed the opportunity to assess the birth monitoring system’s reporting accuracy. The exact times and reasons for each alarm were documented and the proportions of correctly detected births, false alarms, and unrecognized births were calculated. Results: Overall, 96.5% of foalings were correctly detected using the birth monitoring system, with a sensitivity rate of 96% and a specificity rate of 91%. False alarms were primarily caused when a mare rubbed her tail against the stable walls. Conclusion: These data suggest that the tested transponder is well suited for monitoring the birth of mares. However, it is recommended that this method should be used in combination with other birth monitoring methods because not all births were detected correctly. Keywords: birth alarm, mare, parturition, transponder system.