How to Feed Donkey Foals

Donkeys, which have been domesticated since 3,000 B.C., are well-known for the noise they make, called a bray. There are many breeds of donkeys, and their characteristics range from large to small in size and long, shaggy coats, to thinner, shorter ones. A baby donkey, called a foal, usually stays close to his mother and relies on her as his sole source of food for at least the first two weeks of his life.

Things You'll Need

  • Creep feeder or small structure with foal-sized opening
  • Foal ration
  • Fresh water
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Instructions

    • 1

      Allow a newborn donkey foal to nurse from its mother until he is 4 to 6 months old.

    • 2

      Introduce creep feeding, in addition to nursing, when the foal is between 2 weeks and 1 month old, and expresses an interest in his mother's food.

    • 3

      Construct a small structure with an opening just large enough for the foal to enter to use as the creep feeder. Situate the creep feeder close to where the foal's mother eats, or where he can eat with other foals.

    • 4

      Place a combination of grains and minerals that provide 17 to 18 percent protein, often purchased as a "foal ration," in the creep feeder.

    • 5

      Feed the foal according to his weight; feed approximately 2 pounds of food per 100 pounds of foal.

    • 6

      Check daily for spoiled feed and immediately remove it to avoid medical problems in your foal. Provide fresh water with each feeding to keep your foal in optimal health.

    • 7

      Wean a foal from his mother when he is between 4 and 6 months old.