04/06/2026
Foaling season is one of the most exciting times of the year! Seeing a healthy newborn foal up on its feet, nursing well and keeping mum busy is what every owner hopes for 🥰
However, foals can deteriorate surprisingly quickly, so it is important to keep a close eye on them in those first days and weeks. A healthy foal should feed, sleep, zoom around and repeat! 🐴💨
A reduction in nursing, changes in sleeping patterns, spending more or less time lying down, or a drop in energy levels can all be early warning signs that something is not quite right. Trust your instincts. If your foal seems a little "off colour", it is always worth contacting your vet sooner rather than later.
You may have heard of "dummy foal syndrome" (Neonatal Maladjustment Syndrome), where foals can appear confused, fail to nurse normally, or struggle to bond appropriately with their mare. One treatment that may be recommended in suitable cases is the Madigan Squeeze Technique, which can help some foals make the transition to normal newborn behaviour.
📸 Pictured is our vet Assaad performing the Madigan Squeeze Technique on a newborn Shetland foal.
📸Also pictured is the lovely Reggie living his best life nursing from mum and napping in a soft clean bed of shavings (what a life!)
Early intervention can make all the difference. Our veterinary team and clinic facilities are available 24/7 to assess, treat and, when required, admit sick foals for more intensive inpatient care. If you are concerned about your foal at any stage, do not wait, get in touch with us for advice.
📞01342 300 008
✉️ [email protected]