Facts About Foals

Foaling season is an exciting time around any horse stable. Breeding stables often have many foals being born around the same time and of course horse owners are excited to greet a new addition to their fourlegged families when beloved mares give birth.
If youve ever seen a newborn horse or come across videos of mares with their brandnew offspring youve likely already noticed their distinct ability to stand up and walk shortly after birthbut there are plenty more interesting facts about foals that make them unique.
Gestation Period of 11 Months
It takes around 11 months for a foal to fully develop inside of the mare. Some foals can be a few weeks late or early. Occasionally a foal can be up to four weeks late. Most breeders try to time foaling for early spring so the foal can grow and exercise throughout the summer months
Foals Can Stand Within Two Hours of Birth
Foals can stand walk and trot shortly after birth. Ideally a foal should be up and nursing within two hours of birth. If the foal takes longer it may be a good idea to call the veterinarian. Foals can gallop within 24 hours.
Mares Milk Provides Immunity Boost
The first milk a foal gets from its mother is called colostrum. This milk boosts the foals immune system as it is born with little protection 1 Ideally the foal should get colostrum within the first hours of birth or at least within 24 hours of birth. This not only provides antibodies but colostrum