FoalGro

A specifically formulated milk replacer for feeding a newborn foal that is unable to nurse naturally or requires special feeding. 

Ideal for Convalescing, Compromised and Orphaned Foals.

The Need

In an ideal world, all foals would be born healthy, vigorous and able to feed well. Unfortunately, at birth the newborn foal can be compromised, debilitated and in a weakened state. This may be because:

• The foal is weak and unable to nurse (e.g.) prematurity (born prior to 320 days of gestation); dysmaturity (full term but signs of prematurity); severe illness or malnutrition.
• The foal has been orphaned for some reason (e.g.) complications of foaling or rejection of the foal by the dam.
• The mare does not produce sufficient milk (e.g.) fescue endophyte toxicity, prematurity, maiden mare and complications of parturition.

Premature and dysmature foals are more susceptible to infection than normal foals. Glycogen (energy) stores are depleted or will have failed to develop. Normal glycogen stores will only supply energy needs for 2hrs after birth (Ousey, 1997).

A high metabolic requirement, low fat stores and possible illness means that the neonatal foal may be at risk of malnutrition.

The Feeding

Newborn foals rely entirely on their mother’s milk for nutrition.

Feeding the orphan, compromised or convalescing foal requires particular attention to detail and dedicated care.

The first 8-10 days of life are critical for foal survival and provide a good foundation for future growth and development.

To maintain the health and growth of these valuable animals, it is important to provide the following:

• sufficient milk (from at least 10% and up to 25% of body weight, dependent on age)
• the correct formulation and highest quality ingredients
• a complete foal feeding period (usually 8 weeks and up to 3 months of age)

 

Economics

The initial cost of an intensive feeding program often appears high. However, attention to the newborn and its feeding program will increase its chance of survival and development into a healthy foal.

History

Grober Nutrition has been manufacturing milk replacer for 30 years and is the major manufacturer of foal milk replacer in Canada. Testimonials are available and on the web site.