Sick foals often nurse less frequently, reducing their intake of vital energy and vitamins, which can exacerbate their disease and they will need extra support.

Friska Foal, our foal supplement with its multi-vitamin and prebiotic formulation, is tailored to complement the mare’s milk and support the needs of young foals. It provides a nutritional boost for foals at risk of a nutritional gap, those not thriving, or those with health issues. This liquid supplement for foals is highly palatable for very young horses, even when they are off their food.

Friska Foal is administered once or twice daily and can be used from 24 hours of age. Many studs incorporate Friska Foal into the standard management of all foals for the first weeks of life , making it ideal for use during periods of stress, such as when traveling with the mare.

Recognizing Insufficient Milk Intake

Healthy foals typically nurse from their mothers multiple times an hour. A healthy foal not receiving enough milk will be more active, constantly attempting to nurse. They may push persistently and aggressively at the mare’s udder in contrast to foals that receive an ample milk supply, who nurse in a more relaxed manner.

In situations where a foal is not receiving enough milk, efforts should be made to increase the mare’s milk production by adjusting her diet. Alternatively, your vet may suggest certain medications. In extreme cases, a milk replacer can be provided in addition to nursing from the mare or a foster mare might be necessary.

If you suspect that your foal is not receiving enough milk, immediate veterinary assistance is essential, as even a healthy foal not receiving enough milk can deteriorate rapidly.