“A baby horse was born last night and the mother wont let him suckle …”
A baby horse was born last night and the mother wont let him suckle (feed). What do I do? If I have to bottle feed him, how often will I have to do that and what do I give him?
Dr. Jack Sales’ Answer:
Hi Jody. I just received your question and I hope you get the answer in time. Some mares can be really stubborn about letting a new born foal nurse, especially new mothers (first foals). It is vitally important that the foal receive the first milk of the mare (the colostrum) within the first 12 to 24 hours of birth. It may be necessary to twitch the mare and this may allow the mare to allow the foal to nurse. Some form of restraint of the mare may be necessary, (lip chain, twitch, and possibly even some tranquilizer ( usually ace promazine is used) which you will have to get from your Veterinarian. Calling your Veterinarian would be necessary if you try to restrain your mare and she still won’t allow nursing. Some new mothers may be a little more painful in the mammary area than older mares, and this may make them reluctant to allow the foal to nurse. Some Bute or Banamine past or an injection by your Veterinarian will also be helpful in this situation. You should not resort to bottle feeding of a formula unless your mare has no milk, which is usually rare. A quick milk replacement is 1 can evaporated milk to 1 can water (equal parts of each) and add about a teaspoon of white Karo Syrup. If you are not successful at getting the mare to allow nursing within 3 to 4 hours of birth, call a Vet.
“Our bred mare is past her due date by 11 days…”
Our bred mare is past her due date by 11 days. She was late last time, but not near this late. We think we have her conception date correct. Should I be concerned?
Dr. Cheryl Rahal’s Answer:
Stan,
Many mares will vary their gestation lengths by about 2 weeks, without cause for concern. I start getting nervous when they hit 360 days gestation. Causes for concern are dripping milk, vaginal discharge, intermittent cramping, fever (>101.5F), and mild colic signs. You can also give your mare’s belly a bear hug and feel for fetal movements to put your mind at ease. Patience is virtue.
