Most foals are born healthy and strong, but health issues can sometimes arise during the early stages of life. Some of the most common problems include foal heat diarrhea, meconium impaction, and limb deformities.
Foal Sepsis (Foal Heat / Foal Illness)
Foal sepsis is a bacterial infection that can affect foals during the first weeks of life, when their own immune system is not yet fully developed. The infection may start as joint infection, meningitis, diarrhea, or pneumonia, and in the worst cases can develop into bloodstream infection (septicemia).
Symptoms may include reduced appetite, fever, severe lethargy, and general weakness. Extremities such as the ears and legs may feel cold due to poor circulation. If joints are affected, swelling and lameness may also occur. Treatment often requires intensive veterinary care, including antibiotics and sometimes plasma containing antibodies.
Meconium Impaction
Foals normally pass their meconium within 12 hours after birth. If this does not happen, constipation may develop and the foal may suffer from colic. Meconium is dark and often consists of hard, small pellets.
Symptoms include the foal pawing the ground, looking at its belly, and straining. In more severe cases, the foal may lie on its back and attempt to roll. Always contact a veterinarian for advice, but if caught early, the issue can sometimes be resolved with laxatives such as Microlax or similar products.
Limb Deformities
Incorrect limb positioning can occur in foals that are born prematurely, have abnormal growth, or have been positioned incorrectly in the uterus. This may appear as excessive sinking at the fetlocks, overly straight limbs, or abnormal limb alignment. The foal may also be severely toe-in or toe-out.
In mild cases, the issue may correct itself as the foal grows. If treatment is needed, it is important that it is done early before the growth plates close. Always consult a veterinarian and a qualified farrier for guidance.
If you suspect your foal is unwell, you can contact Agria’s veterinary advisory service in the Agria app or call 0775-88 88 88 for advice.
