Foaling season is in full swing! Equestrians’ social media pages are full of adorable new baby pictures, and spring pastures will soon be full of playful foals. As exciting as this season is, it also comes with a long list of responsibilities. Preparing ahead of time is one of the most important steps you can take to support both mare and foal. Whether you’re welcoming your first foal or managing a busy breeding program, this guide will help you feel confident, prepared, and ready for a smooth foaling season.
During Pregnancy: Supporting the Mare for a Strong Start
Nutrition can heavily impact the health of your foal and mare both during and after pregnancy. Pregnancy and nursing can be stressful on your mare’s body as the growing foal requires many extra nutrients. Feeding supplements throughout the pregnancy can help your mare maintain good health, as well as ensure a strong and healthy foal.
Essential Supplements for Pregnant Mares
TRM’s Calphormin is a veterinary and breeder-trusted supplement that provides essential micronutrients for optimal bone development. When fed to pregnant mares, Calphormin helps ensure these nutrients are passed on to the foal in utero, giving them an early advantage in skeletal strength and density. Strong bone development early in life can reduce the risk of injury as the foal grows and begins training.
Another supplement option is Arenus Steadfast Equine Growth. This supplement is ideal during late-term pregnancy to support healthy foal development and can be continued after birth to promote bone, tendon, and soft tissue health. Many breeders also continue feeding it as young horses enter training, helping support recovery and long-term soundness.
Non-Supplement Support: Light Management for Healthy Development
In addition to nutrition, Light Masks are commonly used to help regulate a mare’s natural hormonal cycles through controlled light exposure. This can support more predictable foaling dates and may contribute to healthier foal development, especially in breeding programs managing seasonal timing. Learn more about the power of Equilume Light Masks in supporting foal development
Foaling Alert Systems: Peace of Mind When It Matters Most
Knowing exactly when your mare is about to foal can make a significant difference in outcomes for both mare and foal. Missed foalings increase the risk of complications, and constant overnight checks can be exhausting, especially during peak foaling season.
EasyFoal Alert System
The EasyFoal Foaling Alert System works by detecting changes associated with active labor and sending an alert directly to your phone or receiver. This reduces the need for continuous stall checks while still providing confidence that you won’t miss a critical moment. Learn more about why EasyFoal is a reliable foaling alert solution trusted by breeders across the country.
After Birth: Supporting Digestive and Immune Health
So, your rockstar mare delivered a beautiful, strong foal; the focus shifts quickly to post-foaling care. One of the top priorities in the first days and weeks of life is establishing a strong digestive and immune system. This ensures that they absorb the nutrients needed for growth. It will also reduce the risk of more serious complications such as colic.
Foal Nutrition and Gut Support
The FullBucket Foal Kit is an essential item to have on hand before foaling. This comprehensive kit includes:
- Foal Kick Start to support immune function on day one
- Six tubes of Foal Probiotic to promote healthy gut and immune development during the first week of life
- Foaling Indicator Strips to help determine how close your mare is to foaling
- Foal Information Cards for accurate record keeping
Another excellent option for digestive support is Probios Equine Paste. This easy-to-administer probiotic aids digestion, increases appetite, and can be used at any age. It’s especially helpful during stressful periods such as birth, weaning, travel, or diet changes.
As They Grow: Equipment and Care for Young Foals
One of the most rewarding parts of breeding is seeing your foal grow up and thrive as a youngster! Having the right equipment on hand helps ensure their comfort, safety, and proper handling during these early stages.
Must-Have Foal Essentials
The Walsh Grow with Me Foal Halter halter is a must-have for any breeding operation. Designed with an adjustable crown and removable catch strap, this halter grows with your foal and allows for safe handling throughout their early development.
You’ll also need to be prepared with extra layers, especially if your mare foals out in the early months of the year. The Baker 200g Expand-O-Blanket Foal Turnout has velcro belly and chest bands for easy adjustments as your foal grows.
Being Prepared for the Unexpected
Even with the best preparation, young horses may occasionally require extra care. The FlexiNeb E3 Equine Nebulizer helps breeders stay prepared for potential respiratory concerns in foals and young horses. Designed with a contoured foal-sized mask, this silent, cordless, and lightweight nebulizer allows for direct delivery of aerosolized treatments with minimal stress.
Shop Foaling Essentials at FarmVet
Be ready for every stage of foaling season. Shop trusted foaling supplies, mare supplements, and foal care essentials at FarmVet.
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