As foaling approaches, it is important to be well prepared. Having the right equipment at home and keeping the mare under supervision can make a big difference if something unexpected happens.
Keeping a close eye on the pregnant mare before foaling is extremely important - when foaling complications occur, it is most often because the mare has foaled alone and did not receive help in time. Many breeders therefore use surveillance cameras during the final weeks before foaling. With a camera connected to the internet, the mare can be monitored via a mobile phone around the clock.
Others, for example, use a sweat band on the mare to get indications that foaling is approaching. In most cases, the mare manages foaling on her own, and it is best not to disturb the natural process - however, the mare should always be supervised so that intervention is possible if something goes wrong.
Equipment to Have at Home Before Foaling
It is a good idea to prepare basic equipment well in advance of foaling.
In Agria’s checklist, the following items are included:
- Sterile saline solution and compresses for wound care
- Bandages
- Clean towels
- Chlorhexidine solution for navel care
- Enema (for example Microlax or Klyx from a pharmacy)
- Thermometer
- Soap and lukewarm water in a sink or clean buckets
- Sterile scissors and gloves to open fetal membranes or cut the umbilical cord
It can also be helpful to have equipment at home if the mare does not produce milk or if the foal becomes weak. The following may be useful:
- Feeding bottle
- Colostrum substitute for the first 24 hours
- Foal blanket to prevent hypothermia
It is also wise to keep the veterinarian’s phone number close at hand and preferably have an experienced person you can contact if you need assistance during foaling.
Source: Agria – For Those Expecting a Foal
