Foal Care Guide: Hygiene, Umbilical Care, Nutrition & Vet Milestones (Day-1 to Weaning)
Foaling is the finish line for labor—and the starting gun for care. Use this plan to keep the foal thriving and the mare recovering, from the first dip of the umbilicus to weaning day.
Hygiene & Environment
Clean, Dry, Draft-Free
- Strip and wash the foaling stall after delivery; dry thoroughly.
- Use SuperClean™ Stall & Trailer Cleaner on walls, doors, buckets, and feeders to cut organic buildup and odor.
- Refresh bedding frequently; keep a dry, warm sleeping area for the foal.
Insect Defense
- Repel flies and mosquitoes around mare and foal with Citraquin® (see the collection and How-To Guide).
- Remove manure daily; improve airflow with fans; avoid standing water near the nursery pen.
Umbilical & Minor Wound Care
- Dip the umbilical stump with 0.5% chlorhexidine (or dilute povidone-iodine) soon after birth; repeat several times in the first 12–24 hours.
- Monitor daily for heat, swelling, discharge, foul odor, dripping urine, or pain—these are red flags for infection or patent urachus (call your vet).
- Minor scrapes or navel-area irritation (skin only): on clean, intact skin, apply a stay-put salve such as RESTOREaHORSE® Liqui-Gel or a thin film of Rapid Relief Restorative Cream. Do not coat the open stump or deep lesions.
Important: All skin treatments should be used only on clean, intact skin and per label directions.
Nutrition, Hydration & Electrolytes
Feeding Milestones
- Colostrum: vigorous nursing within 2 hours; ensure a strong suckle reflex.
- IgG Test: at ~12–24 hours to confirm passive transfer.
- Creep feed: introduce gradually per your veterinarian/ nutritionist as the foal grows; fresh water always available.
Hydration Support
- Monitor temperature, gums, and urine; hot weather and mild scours can dehydrate quickly.
- Under veterinary guidance, use Hydro-Lyte® (sugar-free electrolytes) to support hydration plans.
Grooming & Coat Care
- Regular light grooming removes dust, dander, and pollen that can irritate sensitive skin.
- Use gentle washes from the ShowBarn Secret® collection (e.g., Lavender Shampoo/Conditioner); rinse thoroughly and avoid chilling.
- Shine, detangle, protect with Skin & Hair Enhancer or Powder Coat per label; safe for frequent use when rinsed thoroughly.
Post-Foaling Muscle Support for the Mare
Targeted Relief
Apply Draw It Out® 16oz High Potency Gel to large muscle groups for sensation-free, under-wrap friendly comfort.
Broad Coverage
When you need more area, explore Draw It Out® Liniments (Gel vs. Concentrate) to match your coverage and routine—avoid udder/nipples prior to nursing and follow label directions.
Health Checks & Veterinary Milestones
Day-1 to Week-1
- Newborn exam within 12–24 hours; IgG test; navel check; heart/resp rate; limb/hoof evaluation.
- Watch for meconium impaction (straining, tail swishing), lethargy, fever, diarrhea, or poor nursing—call your vet.
Weeks 2–8
- Daily temp/attitude checks; monitor navel for any late changes.
- Discuss parasite control based on fecal egg counts and regional risk.
Months 3–6
- Vaccination series timing depends on mare’s vaccine status and regional risk—plan with your veterinarian (core + risk-based as advised).
- Monitor for joint ill (warm, swollen joints), umbilical hernia, angular/flexural limb deformities, and dental eruption patterns.
Weaning Prep
- Gradual separation plan; ensure the foal is eating forage/creep well and drinking independently.
- Keep hygiene high—wash stalls/trailers with SuperClean™; maintain insect control with Citraquin®.
Call the Vet Any fever, failure to nurse, diarrhea, colic signs, joint heat/swelling, umbilical moisture/odor, weakness, or respiratory signs needs immediate veterinary guidance.
Foal Care — FAQ
How often should I dip the umbilical stump?
Dose soon after birth, then repeat several times over the first 12–24 hours. Keep the navel dry and clean; stop once it is dry and closed.
When should I worry about dehydration?
Sunken eyes, tacky gums, lethargy, and reduced nursing are red flags. Call your vet; electrolyte use (e.g., Hydro-Lyte®) should be guided by your veterinarian.
Is it normal for foals to have loose stools?
“Foal heat” diarrhea can occur around the mare’s first heat; keep hygiene high and monitor closely. Any foul odor, fever, depression, or persistent scours—call your vet.
Educational note: This article provides general information and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. Always follow your veterinarian’s guidance for newborn exams, IgG testing, vaccination/deworming schedules, and product use around mares and foals.
