Foaling season – what you need to know
4 min
For many horse lovers, foaling season is often the highlight of the year. There's nothing quite as special as the moment your foal tries to stand on its wobbly legs for the first time. But behind that touching scene lies a period of preparation, vigilance, and care. A good start makes all the difference!
All ready for the big day
Long before the due date the preparation already begins . A clean , safe Foal box ? Check. A handy emergency kit inside within reach ? Smart. And your mare? She deserves some extra attention . Keep her keep a close eye on it , especially in the last few years to soften .
Don't forget your vet. By checking in regularly, you can both quickly respond to signals that might otherwise go unnoticed. If something goes wrong, you can be the first to know: for your mare and her young.
Colostrum : essential for your foal
Colostrum , also also called colostrum , is the very first milk that a mare gives . And that is indispensable . She is full of immunoglobulins : antibodies that the foal protect in the first vulnerable life hours . Because the immune system of a newborn foal yet not at full capacity touring turns , is that colostrum crucial .
Note: The foal must receive sufficient colostrum within the first six to eight hours . After that, intestinal absorption becomes more difficult. Not sure if it was enough? A blood test by the veterinarian 12 to 24 hours after birth will provide confirmation.
Sometimes things don't go as planned. Is the mare's milk supply too low? Or is the foal not drinking enough? Then it's good to be prepared: a supply of colostrum replacer and a good foal starter really makes all the difference. A foal starter provides an energy boost , supports intestinal function, and provides your foal with all the essential nutrients. This way , you can help them safely through that first, vulnerable phase without compromising their growth or health.
From breast milk to first bites
In the first few weeks, mother's milk works wonders: it contains everything your foal needs. But soon the foal will become curious about its mother's food , and perhaps it will Even a taste of it. A gradual introduction of a special foal starter helps with the transition and provides the foal with what it needs. High-quality proteins, the right calcium and phosphorus The balance and trace elements such as copper, selenium, and zinc are important. Nutrition during this phase is crucial: mistakes can lead to growth problems later on. Unsure? Feel free to ask your veterinarian or a nutritionist for advice; they'll be happy to help you build a strong future for your foal.
Growing healthy
Basic medical care also plays a vital role: deworming, vaccinations, initial hoof corrections, and regular weight checks should be scheduled. Good consultation with your veterinarian and hoof trimmer is crucial for healthy development, especially when correcting or preventing growth defects.
Social contact and exercise for the foal
Besides physical development, socialization shouldn't be underestimated. By growing up together or having regular contact with other foals, your foal learns how horses interact. This fosters self-confidence, healthy mental development, and natural behavior.
Your foal also needs space to move around. A safe, spacious paddock with sturdy fencing and good grip gives it the opportunity to run , jump, and develop muscles. This way, your foal will develop strong joints, a strong heart, and healthy lungs, allowing it to explore the world happily and confidently !
A good foaling season starts with knowledge and preparation
Emotions can run high during foaling season: you bear a great deal of responsibility and have to work hard. The right knowledge, suitable products like TRM's Foal Care , and our Equicom New Life Bundle provide the right support for both mare and foal.
Those who prepare well will reap the rewards later! There's nothing more beautiful than a healthy, strong foal exploring the world with full energy . Isn't that the ultimate reward for all your dedication and care?
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