A to Z of equine foaling and youngstock health

Antibodies: A foal relies entirely on antibodies from its dam’s colostrum to build early immunity. Ensuring good colostrum quality and intake within the first six hours is crucial.

Bonding: The mare-foal bond is essential for early development. Mares should be monitored to ensure they accept and nurture their foal properly.

Colostrum: This first milk is rich in nutrients and antibodies. Foals must receive at least 1-2 litres in the first 12 hours to establish strong immunity.

Dystocia: A difficult birth can have serious consequences for both mare and foal. Knowing when to intervene and when to call the vet is vital.

Enema: Newborn foals may require an enema to help pass the meconium (first manure), preventing impaction and colic.

Failure of Passive Transfer (FPT): If a foal doesn’t receive enough antibodies from colostrum, it may need a plasma transfusion to prevent life-threatening infections.

Growth rates: Balanced nutrition is key to preventing developmental orthopedic disorders (DODs) such as angular limb deformities and contracted tendons.

Hygiene: A clean foaling environment reduces the risk of infections like septicaemia and navel ill. Disinfecting stables and handling equipment is essential.

Immunity: Foals are vulnerable to infections until their immune system matures. Vaccinations, good nutrition, and parasite control help strengthen immunity.

Joints: An infection of the foal’s joints, often linked to poor umbilical hygiene, can cause lameness and permanent damage if untreated.

Kicks: Mares can sometimes kick at their foals, especially if they are sore post-foaling. Monitoring early interactions is crucial for safety.

Lameness: Youngstock can suffer from limb abnormalities, infections, or nutritional imbalances. Early veterinary intervention is key to soundness later in life.

Navel care: Dipping the foal’s umbilical stump in iodine or chlorhexidine prevents bacterial infections such as navel ill.

Oxygen deprivation: Foals deprived of oxygen at birth may suffer from neonatal maladjustment syndrome (dummy foal syndrome), requiring intensive care.

Placenta: A retained placenta in the mare can lead to serious infections and laminitis. It should be passed within three hours post-foaling.

Quiet time: After foaling, both mare and foal need undisturbed bonding time before handling or interference.

Rhodococcus Equi: A serious bacterial infection causing pneumonia in foals, often found in dusty environments. Prevention includes good ventilation and hygiene.

Septicaemia: A life-threatening bacterial infection in newborn foals, often linked to Failure of Passive Transfer (FPT). Symptoms include weakness, fever, and swollen joints.

Turnout: Regular turnout promotes strong bone development and reduces stress in both mares and foals.

Ulcers: Foals can develop gastric ulcers due to stress, diet changes, or prolonged NSAID use such as Bute. Signs include teeth grinding and poor appetite.

Vet checks: A post-foaling veterinary check ensures both mare and foal are healthy and identifies any early concerns.

Worming: Managing parasites in mares and foals is crucial for youngstock health. Foals should start worming at around six-eight weeks but always get your vet’s advice on a thorough worming programme.

X-rays: Used to diagnose limb abnormalities or joint infections in foals, ensuring early intervention for developmental issues.

Yearling nutrition: Balanced nutrition for energetic yearlings helps support steady growth and can prevent orthopedic problems as foals transition into the following yearling year.

Zinc: A specific spectrum of essential minerals is vital. Zinc is one of those essential mineral for proper growth, immunity, and hoof development in young horses.