Having a new foal on the ground can be truly exciting! Even so, there are some signs that owners should look for regarding abnormal mothering abilities, adequate nursing, and normal behavioral presentation.

Signs that a mare may have abnormal mothering abilities:

• Absence of bonding
• Fear of the newborn foal
• Overprotection
• Reluctance of nursing
• True foal rejection

Make sure the foal is nursing well.

It’s also important to check the mare’s udder to see if it has been emptied recently — which will indicate whether the foal is able or getting the chance to nurse regularly. This may also be noted by monitoring the foal’s nursing behaviors. A foal that is not getting enough milk may present as agitated, as well as the mare becoming agitated from possible pain and irritation at the foal’s peristance.  Each nursing period will typically be prolonged and more frequent if a foal is not getting a suitable amount of milk. If this progresses without intervention, the foal may become dull from the lack of nutrition and other health problems may arise for both the mare and foal.  

Other signs of danger to watch for:

• Dull foal presentation
• Seizure behavior
• Unable to stand up or lay down normally
• Abnormally long lengths of time between nursing
• Straining to pass meconium

CRF Equine Services offers post-foaling monitoring. We make sure your newest herd member is adjusting to their new surroundings properly, standing and nursing regularly, and making regular bowel movements. Get in touch today for a free consultation and custom quote or download our pricing guide.