There are several different reasons for this to occur. One would be a genetic defect. Both the sire and the dam might be carriers of a recessive gene that causes tail defects. Both parents then passed on their recessive genes to the foal who now has a double recessive, inheritable genetic defect. If this is the case, then both the sire and dam are carriers for this recessive trait. It could also be due to abnormal embryonic development during the first few weeks of gestation. The pregnant mare could have been exposed to various chemicals such as herbicides or weed killers that altered the development of the tail. Consult your veterinarian and see if a surgical option to correct this deformity would be appropriate.
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