Foaling a mare involves careful preparation, diligent observation of labor signs, and knowing when and how to provide assistance during the birthing process to ensure a safe delivery for both mare and foal.
Preparing for a Smooth Foaling Experience
Successful foaling begins long before the actual birth. Setting up the right environment and having necessary supplies on hand can significantly reduce stress and potential complications.
Essential Preparations:
- Foaling Stall: A large, clean, well-bedded stall (at least 12x12 feet) in a quiet area is ideal. Ensure good ventilation and warmth, especially in colder climates.
- Monitoring System: Install cameras or set up a regular check schedule, particularly as the due date approaches. Many mares foal at night.
- Emergency Contacts: Have your veterinarian's number readily available. Discuss potential complications and an emergency plan beforehand.
- Foaling Kit: Prepare a kit with essential items:
- Clean towels
- Mild antiseptic (e.g., dilute chlorhexidine or iodine) for the umbilical cord
- Sterile gloves
- Tail bandage for the mare
- Bucket of warm water and mild soap
- Flashlight
- Thermometer
- Navel dip cup
- Non-irritating lubricant (if advised by vet for assistance)
For more detailed preparation guidelines, consult reputable equine health resources.
Recognizing Signs of Imminent Foaling
Mares typically show several signs indicating that foaling is near. These signs can appear days or even weeks before birth, but some are more immediate indicators of impending labor.
Key Indicators:
- Udder Development: The mare's udder will begin to "bag up" (swell) weeks or days before foaling.
- Waxing: Small beads of dried colostrum ("wax") may appear on the ends of the teats 24-72 hours before foaling. Not all mares will wax.
- Relaxed Perineum: The muscles around the mare's tail head and vulva will soften and relax, making the area appear looser.
- Changes in Behavior: Restlessness, pacing, pawing, sweating, looking at her flank, and lying down and getting up frequently are common signs of early labor.
- Milk Dripping: Clear or milky fluid may drip from the teats shortly before foaling.
Stages of Foaling: A Quick Overview
Foaling is divided into three distinct stages. Understanding these stages helps you recognize when intervention might be necessary.
| Stage | Duration | Key Events |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1-4 hours (can vary) | Mare becomes restless, shows signs of mild colic, sweats, gets up and down, mild contractions begin. Ends with "water breaking." |
| 2 | 20-30 minutes (critical) | Strong abdominal contractions begin, fetal membranes rupture, appearance of the foal. |
| 3 | 1-3 hours | Expulsion of the placenta. |
Assisting During Foaling
Most mares foal without assistance, but knowing when and how to intervene can be life-saving. The goal is to assist only when necessary and to do so gently and hygienically.
When to Consider Assistance:
- Prolonged Stage 2: If the mare has been in active labor (Stage 2) for more than 30 minutes with strong contractions and no progress, or if only one foot or no visible parts of the foal appear.
- Incorrect Presentation: If only one foot is visible, the head is bent back, or the presentation appears abnormal (e.g., tail first).
- Visible Difficulties: If the mare is straining excessively without progress, or appears to be in severe distress.
How to Assist (If Necessary):
- Hygiene First: Always wear clean, sterile gloves and ensure the mare's vulva area is clean.
- Assess Presentation: Observe if two front hooves are visible, generally one slightly ahead of the other, followed by the nose. This is the normal "diving" presentation.
- Applying Gentle Traction: If the foal is presenting correctly but the mare is having difficulty, gentle traction can sometimes be applied.
- During abdominal contractions, you can grip the foal's fetlocks and hold firmly. This is important as it helps to stop the foal from going back in as the contractions relax.
- If more forceful traction is required, pull back and down towards the mare's fetlocks in sync with her contractions. Never pull against a contraction. The direction is crucial to help the foal navigate the birth canal's curve.
- Avoid excessive force; if significant resistance is met, immediately contact your veterinarian.
- Clearing Airways: Once the foal's head has passed the vulva, it may be necessary to clean any membranes from the nostrils. This ensures the foal can breathe freely immediately upon birth.
- Umbilical Cord: Allow the cord to break naturally as the mare gets up or the foal struggles to stand. Do not cut it unless advised by a veterinarian. Once broken, dip the navel stump in a dilute antiseptic solution to prevent infection.
Post-Foaling Care
After the foal is born, observe both mare and foal closely for crucial developments.
- Foal: Ensure the foal starts breathing, attempts to stand within an hour, and nurses within two hours. These are vital for colostrum intake and bonding.
- Mare: Monitor the mare for proper placenta expulsion (usually within 1-3 hours). Inspect the placenta to ensure it is complete; retained placenta is a serious medical emergency.
For further reading on equine reproduction and foaling, resources like the American Association of Equine Practitioners provide valuable information.
