Newborn foals should be examined by a veterinarian and their IgG level tested. The IgG indicates that the foal absorbed antibodies from the mare’s colostrum, or the first milk she makes, which is critical to having a healthy foal. A foal in the first week of life will be going to nurse several times an hour. Make sure that the baby is attaching to the udder and swallowing. If the foal isn’t getting enough milk, he or she will often bang the udder with their muzzle and sometimes appear frustrated. Additionally, the healthy, well-nourished foals will have periods of being very active and playful and should seem to visibly be growing in front of your eyes. If your foal seems tired, inactive, or not to be growing, these may all be signs that the mare is not producing enough milk.
