Foal speed ahead: Caring for the newborn horse

mechanical issues with their limbs. This is a case of contracted tendons and the vet needs to immediately assess this because a foal that cannot get up is a foal that cannot nurse and that can lead to very big problems says Delvescovo.
For the foals first 612 weeks they rely on their mothers antibodies to protect them from pathogens while their own bodies build up an innate immune system.
Transfer of immunity
For the foals first 612 weeks they rely on their mothers antibodies to protect them from pathogens while their own bodies build up an innate immune system. This transfer comes from the mares colostrum the first milk that is produced after birth. Owners should check the quality of the colostrum using a Brix refractometer which will show the percentage of immunoglobin antibodies in the colostrum. Above 30 percent is excellent below 20 is not enough. As mentioned above owners should also make sure the foal is able to access and nurse to receive the colostrum shortly after birth.
To make sure immunity transfer has taken place the veterinarian will take a blood sample during the first 24 hours of life to assess the foals immunoglobin antibodies IgG.
 

Foals can only absorb IgG during their first 18 to 24 hours of life. Its very important that you get the foal colostrum during this time says Delvescovo. If the foal has low IgG levels they can receive donated or supplemental colostrum. If the foal is beyond the 24hour window IV plasma delivery of immunoglobins is an option.
Owners must be able to recognize abnormal mothering behaviors. 
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Foal speed ahead Caring for the newborn horse
Friday February 3 2023 239pm
The checklist for evaluating and caring for a newborn foal is extensive with many things to look out for both during birth and after. Understanding what is normal and abnormal is crucial as humans help our animals begin what will hopefully be a healthy and happy horsey life. Photo Yvon HoogersUnsplash
This is an accompanying article to a Cornell Equine Seminar presented Dec. 14 2021 by Dr. Barbara Delvescovo clinical instructor in large animal medicine.
The checklist for evaluating and caring for a newborn foal is extensive with many things to look out for both during birth and after. Understanding what is normal and abnormal is crucial as humans help our animals begin what will hopefully be a healthy and happy horsey life.
What follows here is an overview. Please watch Delvescovos entire presentation for more extensive information.
Pregnancy
Horse gestation typically lasts around 342 days with colt pregnancies lasting slightly longer than a fillys.  A foal delivered before day 320 is considered premature and may suffer health problems and foals that go beyond 360 days of gestation may also have problems from being in the womb too long.
 

Signs that a mare is about to give birth include her udder filling with milk about two to four weeks before foaling and secretions of small amounts of colostrum one to four days before labor.
Preparing for the big moment
If owners do decide to foal