Page 928 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

If the vulval conformation is poor, a Caslick’s operation may be carried out. This

involves suturing the upper part of the vulval lips together under local anaesthetic (Figure
VetBooks.ir 19.14). This must be opened before the mare foals or she will tear during foaling. It can be
cut open at the start of second stage labour or it may be done by the vet a few days prior to

foaling.

Figure 19.14 Caslick’s operation

SWABS AND SMEARS

Swabs are taken to check for inflammation or infection of the reproductive tract. An infected
(dirty) mare will not conceive, so covering her is a waste of time and money. More

importantly, a mare with venereal disease will infect the stallion and any mares he
subsequently covers. Maiden mares are included in this regime. There are two types of swab.

Clitoral swab

A clitoral swab is taken at the start of the breeding season. It can be taken at any stage of the
oestrous cycle. A narrow-tipped swab is introduced into the clitoral sinuses and clitoral fossa