The first days and weeks of a foal’s life are crucial for its future development. During this time, growth is rapid, organs mature, and the foundation is laid for a strong skeleton, healthy joints, and a well-functioning immune system. Proper nutrition - in the right amounts and balance - is therefore essential from the very first day.
When the mare’s milk is not enough
In an ideal world, the foal receives all the nutrition it needs from the mare’s milk. In reality, however, this is not always the case. Some mares, especially first-time mothers, produce too little milk or struggle to meet the foal’s increasing needs during the first weeks. Orphan foals or weak foals may also require extra support to develop optimally.
Pavo Foal Milk has been developed for use when:
- the mare’s milk production is insufficient
- the foal is orphaned
- the foal needs additional nutritional support
This milk replacer is formulated to closely resemble the mare’s own milk and fully covers the foal’s nutritional requirements. It can be given as a supplement or as a complete replacement, offering breeders a reliable solution during a critical phase of the foal’s life.
From milk to solid feed
At an early stage, the foal begins to show interest in solid feed. As the foal grows and approaches weaning, the demands on the feeding program increase further. During this period, skeletal and joint development is rapid, and an imbalance between energy, protein, and minerals can increase the risk of growth-related issues such as loose bone fragments and joint changes.
Controlled growth with the Pavo Podo® concept
To support steady and controlled growth, Pavo has developed the Pavo Podo® concept, in which each feed is tailored to the young horse’s developmental stage:
Pavo Podo® Start – from approximately 2 weeks of age up to 8 months
Pavo Podo® Junior – from approximately 3 weeks of age up to 3 years
Pavo Podo® Grow – from approximately 8 months of age and throughout the young horse period
These feeds provide:
- the right amount of energy for steady growth
- a balanced protein content
- Podo® minerals that support strong bones and healthy joints
➡️ Pavo Podo® Grow is an excellent choice from around 8 months of age and all the way up to 3 years, when growth is still intensive but needs to be carefully controlled.
When forage is sufficient
Not all young horses require concentrate feed. If the forage is of good quality and the young horse is in good body condition, a targeted mineral supplement may be a suitable alternative.
Pavo Podo® Care is recommended for young horses that:
- grow unevenly
- show signs of joint or skeletal issues
- are in a period of rapid growth
- are in good body condition and receive well-balanced forage
- do not require additional energy from concentrate feed
The foal can be introduced to Pavo Podo® Care from an early age. Many foals begin to show interest in solid feed at 4–6 weeks of age, often by sampling feed from the mare’s manger. By offering the foal its own feed trough early on, you can encourage independent eating behavior.
In Summary
From the very first days through the young horse stage, feeding is about balance, timing, and adaptation. By meeting the foal’s needs early - and adjusting the nutritional strategy as the horse grows - you create the best possible conditions for a durable, strong, and healthy individual.
