Recognizing illness in sick foals can be challenging as they often exhibit more subtle signs of illness compared to adults. Not only that, but their condition also deteriorates at a faster pace. Therefore, it is crucial to promptly identify the signs of illness as soon as possible.
Understanding the Signs of Illness:
- Foals often exhibit subtle signs of illness compared to adults
- Prompt identification of these signs is crucial due to faster deterioration
Monitoring the Mare and Foal:
- Familiarize yourself with their daily routines:
- Regularly feel the mare’s udder to understand the normal state
- Watch out for hardness or enlargement, indicating decreased nursing
- Check for dripping or streaming milk on the foal’s face, a sign of an over distended udder
- Pay attention to the foal’s umbilicus:
- Check for any enlargement or discharge
- Call a veterinarian if abnormalities are found
- Dip the navel in 0.5% chlorhexidine daily for cleanliness
Diarrhea and Attitude Changes:
- “Foal heat” diarrhea around one week after birth is usually transient and resolves without treatment
- Abnormal diarrhea accompanied by attitude changes requires further investigation:
- Lethargy, decreased nursing, or a fever above 102.2 F
Leg Examination:
- Regularly inspect the foal’s legs:
- Swelling and lameness can indicate life-threatening infections
- Immediate veterinary attention is necessary
Observing Personality Changes:
- Most sick foals exhibit a change in personality
- Know your foal’s normal behavior:
- Lack of interest in surroundings or weakness may signal illness
- Seek veterinary assistance promptly
Extra Caution for High-Risk Foals:
- Foals with difficult births or abnormalities are at higher risk
- Early treatment is crucial to prevent devastating consequences
Prevention and Early Assessment:
- Thorough examination and blood test for all foals between 8 to 16 hours after birth
- Detect potential problems and boost immune function if necessary
- Provide a clean environment:
- Straw bedding preferred for the first week
Proactive Care for Optimal Health:
- Stay attentive to the well-being and development of your foal.