Have you ever wondered about the distinctions between donkeys and mules? In some aspects, the two are very similar, while in others, they are quite different. Many mule enthusiasts believe they combine the greatest aspects of both animals. Mules are as strong and patient as donkeys, but have the agility of horses. They have traditionally been used as working animals, but they are now gaining popularity among equestrians. In fact, they can even do dressage! This story features a local Mt. Airy, MD veterinarian discussing mules.

How Are A Mule And A Donkey Different?

Mules are hybrids of horses and donkeys. The donkey is the sire, while the horse is the dam.

Mules are not the only equine hybrids. There’s also the hinny, which is a horse/donkey hybrid with the horse as father and the donkey as dam. Then there’s the zorse, a hybrid of a male zebra and a female horse, and the zonkey, a male zebra mated with a female donkey. We also have the zedonk, a cross between a male donkey and a female zebra.

Are Mules Actually Stubborn?

You’ve probably heard the term “being stubborn as a mule.” That isn’t wrong! Though further research is needed, investigations have revealed that mules are smarter than typical equines. That could explain why they sometimes refuse to do tasks they loathe. They also learn things quickly. We typically recommend castration for males since they are calmer and simpler to manage thereafter. 

Don’t be fooled, though: mules can be very sweet and affectionate.

Why Can’t Mules Reproduce?

Horses have 64 chromosomes, while donkeys have 62. Mules receive 63. That odd number interrupts cell division, making the animal sterile.

What Are The Most Common Health Issues That Mules Face?

Mules are normally quite hardy, and seldom inherit inherited disorders. However, they are susceptible to some issues, including diseases, limb abnormalities, and ectoparasites. They may also develop many of the same maladies as older horses, including dental difficulties, arthritis, and PPID (Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction), as well as conformation issues.

Here are some tips:

• While turnout time is always essential for horses, it is especially important for mules. They simply do not enjoy being confined for extended periods of time!
• Mule teeth differ slightly from those of horses. Make sure to inspect your mule’s choppers regularly and get them floated as needed. Pay close attention to this as your hooved pardner gets older.
• Mules are particularly susceptible to lungworms and other parasites. Continue with your deworming program.
• Mules and horses do not metabolize drugs in the same manner. Before administering anything, please consult with your veterinarian.
• Mules frequently need blankets to stay warm in cold weather.

Potential owners should be aware that mules’ stoicism makes it difficult to detect sickness. You’ll need to keep a close eye out. Ask your Mt. Airy, MD vet for more information.

What Should You Feed Your Mule?

Mule diets are similar, but not identical, to horse diets. Mules, like their parents, are herbivorous. Their diets should be mostly composed of pasture, hay, and grain, with the occasional treat.

• Mules require a fiber-rich diet. You should limit their intake of hydrolyzable carbohydrates (HC), which include starch, sucrose, maltose, lactose, and galactose and are processed in the small intestine.
• Mules, unlike horses, can eat straw. However, in general, hay is a better choice.
• Make sure to add a salt lick!
• Overall, mules eat less than horses. On the other hand, they need a lot of water. They may consume up to 15 gallons each day! This is something they got from the donkey, which is used to desert surroundings. You might want to have a trough because otherwise you might be constantly filling buckets.
• Mules are also susceptible to developing laminitis. You’ll need to be careful about sugar content. Never give your mules sugary feed. Alfalfa is also a no. In terms of forage, consider having your grass examined. Some fodder is too rich and/or sweet for mules. Fescue grass is equally dangerous.

For further information, consult your veterinarian in Mt. Airy, MD.

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