The flat foal

The neonatal foal seeks to achieve sternal recumbency within minutes of birth and stand within 1–2 h of delivery. Within 5–10 min of birth the suckle reflex is present. Most foals suckle the mare within 2 h of birth (breed and size variations), with greater than 3 h considered an abnormal finding. Initial attempts to stand are poorly coordinated, however, the foal rapidly develops appropriate posture and moves freely in search of the mare. The healthy foal is easily roused and quickly seeks the mare for suckling. Compromised neonates tend to remain recumbent longer, with abnormal behaviour and the inability to stand and suckle leading to a lack of colostrum intake, preventing adequate transfer of passive immunity ...