Foaling Helpful Tips
Are You Prepared?
- Booster mare's vaccinations 30 days prior to foaling.
- Provide a clean, dry foaling stall bedded with straw (not shavings).
- Be sure Caslick is opened at least 1-2 weeks prior to due date.
- Have an enema and umbilical dip (0.5% chlorhexidine "Nolvasan" diluted one to four parts water) on hand.
When to call the Vet
- If the mare does not have a full milk bag within one week of her due date.
- If the mare runs milk consistently prior to foaling for more than 3-4 days.
- If heavy labor (pushing) persists for 20 minutes without any sign of the foal protruding from the vulva. The front feet and nose should come first. If the feet are presented with the soles up, call the vet.
- If the foal is not delivered within 20 minutes following the first sign of the foal protruding from the vulva.
- If the foal does not rise within one hour of birth, nurse within 2-3 hours of birth, or pass the meconium (first stool) within one hour after rising and receiving an enema.
- 24 hours following birth, the mare, foal and placenta should be examined by a vet for any signs of abnormalities.
- Premature placental separation or "red bag" requires immediate attention. If the bag covering the foal is red instead of milky white, the person attending foaling should break (tear or cut) the bag immediately and assist in complete presentation of the foal or it will suffocate within minutes. Call the vet once the foal is on the ground.