Breathing Problems in Newborn Foals

After almost a year of waiting, the birth of a newborn foal is both exciting and nerve-racking. Chances are, everything will run smoothly. But when problems arise, there are crucial steps you can take to give your mare and foal the best chances of survival. Keep a phone nearby so you can call your vet immediately if something goes wrong. While you are waiting for your vet, keep in mind that the foal needs oxygen above all else.

  1. What Is Normal

    • Shortly after birth (for 30 seconds or so), the foal will take gasping breaths. The foal's respiratory rate should adjust to 40-60 breaths per minute. Watch the horse's chest or nostrils flare to count. After approximately three hours, expect the respiratory rate to be 30-40 breaths per minute.

    Warning Signs

    • Horses do not breathe through their mouth, so if you see your foal trying to gasp for air through his mouth, or panting, this is a medical emergency and a symptom of severe respiratory distress. Check your foal's gums. They should be pink. Yellow, purple or pale gums are not normal.

    Possible Causes

    • A difficult birth, premature separation of the placenta, or a premature or otherwise sick foal can all attribute to breathing problems in newborn foals.

    Treatment

    • If the foal is not breathing well or not breathing at all at birth, stimulate her by vigorously rubbing her chest with a towel and sitting her up, as oxygen levels tend to be higher up than when the foal is lying on her side. Clear her nostrils with a suction bulb. If you have a hay bale nearby, laying the foal on the bale and letting her head hang over the side may help fluids drain out.

    Prevention

    • Excellent management skills of the pregnant mare are your best chances of ensuring a healthy, strong foal. But even with the best care and feeding program, sometimes problems happen.

    Expert Insight

    • One of the first things you can do as soon as the foal is born, or even as his head emerges from the mare, is remove the sac from his head so that it does not obstruct his efforts to breathe. Closely monitor the foal for any signs of distress.