Foal and young horse feeding: milk replacer & Colostrum

The starting phase is critical. Find our essential solutions here. We offer colostrum and milk replacer for a healthy foal.

9 products

Produits-veto – Bannière de base – Monter sur ses grands chevaux

Veterinary medicine

BOIRON

Orotar Granules - Drying-off - Volume of the udder in cows and ewes - 3 x 4g - BOIRON

In stock

€34.83

Unavailable in your country

Foal Booster - Colostrum - Foal - 4 syringes of 15 ml - HORSE MASTER

POMMIER NUTRITION ›HORSE MASTER

(2)

Foal Booster - Colostrum - Foal - 4 syringes of 15 ml - HORSE MASTER

In stock

€24.55

Unavailable in your country

GREENPEX

(1)

MSE Elevage - Foal Growth - 2 Kg - GREENPEX

In stock

€30.24

Unavailable in your country

BIMEDA

(1)

Neobion - Milk replacer for foals, calves and piglets - 2 kg - BIMEDA

In stock

€36.87

Unavailable in your country

AUDEVARD

Lactofoal - Milk replacer for foals - 2,2 kg - AUDEVARD

In stock

€56.40

Unavailable in your country

AUDEVARD

Bonutron Yearling - Growth support for young horses - 3 kg - AUDEVARD

In stock

€108.15

Unavailable in your country

AUDEVARD

Lactofoal - Milk replacer for foals - 14 kg - AUDEVARD

In stock

€233.08

Unavailable in your country

POMMIER NUTRITION ›FARNAM

Vita Plus - Vitamins and minerals for horses - 3,1 kg - FARNAM

In stock

€81.25

Unavailable in your country

POMMIER NUTRITION ›FARNAM

Vita Plus - Vitamins and minerals for horses - 1,3 kg - FARNAM

In stock

€46.25

Unavailable in your country

Feeding foals and young horses: milk replacer & Colostrum

Protecting the initial phase: The crucial role of Colostrum and Milk Replacer

The vital importance of Colostrum for the newborn foal

The foal is born without immune defenses. This is a biological fact. Colostrum is the first vital necessity. It is the milk produced by the mare. It is rich in immunoglobulins (IgG). These antibodies are transferred to the foal. This transfer must happen very quickly. The foal's intestine closes its doors. This process is called gut closure. It occurs within 12 to 24 hours. Insufficient intake can be fatal. Therefore, the quality of the mare's colostrum is essential. Breeders must monitor this parameter. Substitute products are then essential. They fill this critical deficit.

The nutritional relay with Milk Replacer for orphan foals

The survival of the orphan foal depends on a perfect substitution. Mare's milk is unique. It is very different from cow's milk. Milk replacers must reproduce this composition. They have a specific protein and lactose content. They must be highly digestible. Their formula ensures harmonious growth. It supports skeletal development. In addition, it prevents frequent digestive disorders. It is the essential solution in the absence of the mother. You thus ensure the future of the young horse. The transition to solid feed must be gradual.

The benefits of supplements in Feeding foals and young horses

Investing in good foal and young horse nutrition offers major benefits:

Immune Security: Guaranteed intake of immunoglobulins (IgG) for the newborn.
Controlled Growth: Specific formulas for optimal bone and muscle development.
Ease of Use: Powdered products easy to prepare and dose precisely.
Veterinary Prevention: Emergency solution in case of absence of maternal colostrum.
High Digestibility: Milks adapted to the foal's fragile digestive system.
Increased Vitality: Supports natural defenses from the first hours of life.

Frequently asked questions about Feeding foals and young horses: milk replacer & Colostrum

Do foals really need colostrum?

Yes, foals depend entirely on colostrum. This is a biological requirement. The foal is born with no immune protection at all. There is no antibody transfer in utero. Colostrum contains the vital immunoglobulins (IgG). These antibodies protect the foal from infections. They are transmitted only after birth. The foal must ingest colostrum quickly. The intestine absorbs these molecules in the first hours. After 24 hours, this absorption becomes impossible. A deficiency is very dangerous. It exposes the foal to serious infections. This is why substitute foal colostrum is essential in case of doubt. You thus secure the first hours of its life.

What is the ideal amount of colostrum for a newborn foal?

The ideal amount varies according to the size of the foal. You should aim for between 1.5 and 2 litres of colostrum. This intake must be provided within the first six hours of life. The first feeding is the most critical. It is ideally carried out within the first two hours. This is when absorption is at its maximum. Breeders recommend checking the IgG level. This check is done by blood test at 12 or 24 hours. If the level is low, you must act quickly. A foal colostrum substitute is then administered. The veterinarian will confirm the exact need. They will ensure the best management of this critical period. Failing to reach the critical threshold increases health risks.

How are foals fed in the absence of the mare?

In the event of loss of the mother, the foal requires immediate intervention. It must be fed with horse milk replacer. This milk is formulated to mimic that of the mare. It is given warm. It is distributed via a bottle or a bucket. The frequency of feeds is very high at first. A newborn foal drinks small amounts. It does so very often. You must follow a strict protocol. This is crucial for its growth. Cleanliness of utensils is vital. A digestive infection is quick and serious. Horse milk replacer provides all the nutrients. It ensures regular growth. The breeder should consult a veterinarian for an early weaning plan.

Is foal nutrition different after weaning?

Yes, nutrition changes radically after weaning. Weaning often occurs between four and six months. The foal moves on to a solid ration. It must consume concentrated feeds. These feeds support its rapid growth. They are rich in quality protein and minerals. The calcium/phosphorus ratio must be strictly balanced. This prevents osteo-articular problems. The provision of quality forage must remain essential. It is necessary for the development of the digestive system. Specific feeds for foals are often used. These products are called foal starters. They prepare the young horse for adulthood.

To find out more

For nutritional support for horses: Horse nutrition
All supplements for horses: Horse care and wellbeing
Featured laboratories:

Foal and young horse feeding: milk replacer & Colostrum

Orotar Granules - Drying-off - Volume of the udder in cows and ewes - 3 x 4g - BOIRON

Foal Booster - Colostrum - Foal - 4 syringes of 15 ml - HORSE MASTER

MSE Elevage - Foal Growth - 2 Kg - GREENPEX

Neobion - Milk replacer for foals, calves and piglets - 2 kg - BIMEDA

Lactofoal - Milk replacer for foals - 2,2 kg - AUDEVARD

Bonutron Yearling - Growth support for young horses - 3 kg - AUDEVARD

Lactofoal - Milk replacer for foals - 14 kg - AUDEVARD

Vita Plus - Vitamins and minerals for horses - 3,1 kg - FARNAM

Vita Plus - Vitamins and minerals for horses - 1,3 kg - FARNAM

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