Very Common
Less Common
You also might be observing
Observation
What you see. The starting point for addressing any equine health related issue is your observation.
YOU ARE OBSERVING
Foal or Newborn, Milk Drying on Face
Summary
A glazing of dried milk on a foal's muzzle and face is an indication that they have not been able to keep up with the mare's milk production. It should be an indicator that something is wrong and should at least prompt you to monitor the situation closely.
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Code Red
Call Your Vet Immediately, Even Outside Business Hours- If you are convinced that your foal is not nursing.
your role
What To Do
Assess the foal's general health, paying particular attention to its ability to stand and nurse the mare. Since this situation can be serious in very young foals (possibly a bit less urgent in older foals), immediately contact your vet with your findings and concerns.
Skills you may need
Procedures that you may need to perform on your horse.
your vet's role
Questions Your Vet Might Ask:
- Is the foal active and nursing?
- How old is the foal?
- Did the foal stand and nurse normally after foaling?
- Was the foal normal before, i.e. nursing, bright and alert?
Diagnostics Your Vet May Perform
Figuring out the cause of the problem. These are tests or procedures used by your vet to determine what’s wrong.
Diagnoses Your Vet May Consider
The cause of the problem. These are conditions or ailments that are the cause of the observations you make.
Treatments Your Vet May Recommend
A way to resolve the condition or diagnosis. Resolving the underlying cause or treating the signs of disease (symptomatic treatment)
