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This blog was developed in collaboration with Dr. Nichole Logan, DVM, a veterinarian with expertise in equine reproduction. She earned her DVM from Oklahoma State University in 2003 and a Master of Science in Clinical Sciences from Colorado State University in 2006. Dr. Logan has worked as a thoroughbred stud veterinarian in Australia, a mixed animal practitioner in South Dakota, and now provides nationwide relief work. She enjoys raising reined cow and ranch horses, scuba diving, and traveling to tropical destinations with her two cats, Rowdy and Olivia.
Preparing for a Safe and Successful Birth
Wobbly legs, a soft coat, and that sweet little nose nuzzling its mama—there’s nothing more heartwarming than the sight of a newborn foal!
After months of preparation, the moment has finally arrived. But successful foaling doesn’t just happen—it takes plenty of care, attention, and planning to ensure both the mare and her foal are healthy, happy, and safe.
Whether you're a seasoned breeder or a first-time foaling caretaker, these seven essential steps will guide you through the process, helping your mare and her new foal get the best start possible.
1. Help Your Mare Prepare: Vaccines and Caslick’s Care
Administer pre-foaling booster vaccinations 4–6 weeks before your mare’s due date. These vaccines stimulate her immune system to produce antibodies, which will be passed to the foal through her colostrum. This immunoglobulin-rich milk is crucial for protecting the foal during those fragile first weeks of life.
If your mare has a Caslick’s suture, be sure it’s removed at least two weeks before her due date. Your equine practitioner can help determine if this is necessary, especially for mares with an unknown history.
2. S-table for Two: Optimize Her Nutrition
Hay is for horses... especially expecting ones!
Keeping your mare well-fed is crucial for a smooth foaling season. Early in pregnancy, a forage-based diet with plenty of fiber, protein, and calories is essential for her growing new arrival.
Pair high-quality hay with a ration balancer or supplements to ensure she gets everything needed during the last trimester. A healthy diet also supports milk production, helping your mare nourish her foal.
3. Watch for the Signs: How to Know When Foaling Is Near
As your mare approaches her due date, you’ll notice mammary gland development 2–6 weeks before foaling. Testing her milk calcium levels is one of the most reliable ways to predict foaling. A calcium level above 200 ppm indicates foaling could happen within 48 hours. The Foal Watch Kit by Chemetrics is a trusted option for monitoring these levels.
Also, watch for fetal movement—the little kicks and shifts are signs your mare’s body is preparing for the big day!
If mammary development is slow or you notice anything unusual, consult your vet about using Domperidone to stimulate milk production.
4. The Big Day: Must-Haves and Must-Knows
Your foaling kit is your ultimate stall-side companion. Be prepared with these essentials:
Vet Wrap: Keeps the mare’s tail clean and out of the way.
Chlorhexidine Solution: Dilute 1:4 with distilled water for safe, effective umbilical cord cleaning.
Enema: Helps the foal pass its first stool (meconium).
Scissors: Useful for umbilical cord management if needed.
Towels: Perfect for drying off the newborn foal.
Your foal should arrive in a “diving position” (front hooves, nose, and head). If there’s no progress 10–15 minutes after membrane rupture, call your veterinarian.
Foaling can be unpredictable, so being prepared is key to ensuring a smooth delivery. That’s why having quick access to the medications and supplies you need is so important. With Blue Rabbit, our online pharmacy and home delivery solution, equine veterinarians can prescribe and order medications right from the barn.
Book a free, 30-minute demo to learn more about Blue Rabbit for equine veterinarians.
5. The 1-2-3 Rule: Helping Your New Foal Find Their Feet
When your little one arrives, it’s an exciting—and critical—time. Keep the "1-2-3 Rule" in mind to ensure a healthy start:
1 hour: The foal should stand.
2 hours: The foal should nurse.
3 hours: The mare should pass the placenta.
If things don’t go as planned, don’t wait—call your vet. Newborn foals are delicate, and a little extra care can go a long way!
6. Follow-Up Care: Schedule a New Foal Check-Up
A check-up 12–24 hours after birth ensures your foal is off to a great start. During this exam, your vet will check IGG levels, temperature, pulse, and respiration. Plasma may be given to further boost the foal’s immune system, and your mare can be dewormed at this time to prevent parasites from passing to the foal through her milk.
Through Wedgewood, your vet can provide ivermectin/praziquantel for your mare and fenbendazole for your foal—making parasite control simple and stress-free!
7. Post-Foaling Fertility: Preparing Your Mare for Her Next Cycle
Your mare will ovulate again around 10 days post-foaling. While this cycle can be fertile, waiting until Day 10 or later may increase the odds of success. If precise timing is needed, ask your vet about using deslorelin to induce ovulation. Wedgewood compounds deslorelin to support your breeding goals.
Celebrate with Ongoing Care
Foaling season is a magical time! With these seven steps, you're on track for a smooth, successful delivery and a healthy start.
Now, enjoy every precious moment with your new foal and don’t forget to spoil them—they’ve certainly earned it!
If your mare and foal need additional support, Wedgewood is here to assist your veterinarian in providing the necessary care.
Explore our formulary for medications designed to help them thrive.