Fat Shetland with milk!

[Saggyoldclothcatpuss]

Due to recently movin to a lovely farm, with thick lush grass, my smallest Shetland, is rather fat, (no rider at present) and I'm keeping a tigh control on her diet to stop it getting worse and hopefully shed a few pounds!
However, on inspection recently, her nipples are rather large and dripping milk, which can be easily expressed. My other two maiden mares have are fat but their teats are barely visible. I can't imagine anyone would ever have bred from her as her conformation is not good, but her teats are big and dangling. I'm a bit perplexed, as I have only had her a few months, and I am sure her past owner wouldn't have mated her, but apparently did at one time have horse youngsters on her place as well. I can only imagine the only way she could be pregnant would be an accident and it's not very likely. Anyone know if too much rich grass could have her producing milk? I used to work on a stud, but then they were pregnant, so I have never come across this!

[CluckyKate]

Sounds like your Shettie is about to foal!!!

Over-eating does not cause lactation - hormones do. A quick call to the vet is in order I think!

Let us know what happens

[Saggyoldclothcatpuss]

Hmm! Just don't see how it can be though! I've heard of big and little horses mating, but thoroughbred \ mini Shetland? I suppose I'll just have to keep an eye! A vet won't internal something that small, and a bloodtest would take a week anyway! My other Shetland was similar last year, but she had been covered. It was a phantom! Is very wierd! I hope she isn't pregnant, she has a massive underbite, and is a hand taller at the back than in front! Not really good for breeding!

[CluckyKate]

Actually, that's a good point - it could be phantom....hadn't thought of that.

Fingers crossed that's what it is

Do you have a stethescope??? Might be worth a listen to see if you can hear another heartbeat.