Spermatogenesis in the stallion takes 60 days and high fever from any cause can damage it. Any dental care should be attended to before the season and a regular de-worming program is essential. A current coggins test and EVA testing are a must if international shipments are anticipated. Freshman stallions should have thorough physical exams and medical histories reviewed. Previously administered anabolic or body building steroids may cause some problems in the breeding shed.
Some farms continue to breeze race horses on a small racetrack throughout their breeding lives.
A stallion ending an athletic career and beginning a breeding one should be allowed to wind down gradually from frequent strenuous exercise. The physical condition of a stallion should be considered and overweight or underweight individuals should have their diet and workout schedules adjusted accordingly. Breeding is hard work for the stallion and they should be watched closely during the season for unwanted weight loss or soreness due to arthritis. A stallion dismounting because of a painful back or hock is not uncommon and these discomforts should be attended to without delay. It is a good idea to allow the stallion to become comfortable in the breeding shed before it opens for business.