Mare and Foal Care
My mare is due to foal for the first time in a couple of months. What steps should be taken after she has the foal?
First of all, be sure the mare is in good body condition now. She should be free of internal and external parasites and should be getting proper nutrition.
You need to watch the mare closely when she is near parturition (foaling) as she may need help quickly if she has a problem delivering the foal (dystocia). After the mare has the foal, you should have your veterinarian check both of them. The mare should be checked to be sure she has no tears in the birth canal and also that she has passed the placenta. She should also receive a tetanus antitoxin.
The foal will need to be checked for any deformities, such as heart problems, cleft palate, contracted tendons, etc. The foal may need an enema to get bowel movements started. It’s navel will also need to be checked and disinfected, and it will need antibiotics and tetanus antitoxins. It is also important to be sure that the foal is able to nurse.
Good luck with your new addition!
All pdf documents require the Adobe Acrobat Reader.