Page 959 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse
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Figures 19.30a and b First feed: a) the foal instinctively searches for the teats; b) the foal should suckle within 2 hours of
birth
THE IMPORTANCE OF COLOSTRUM
Colostrum is the thick, yellow liquid in the udder when the foal is born. It contains antibodies
that provide protection against infection and must be sucked by the foal within the first 3–4
hours of life. If the mare runs milk prior to foaling, this essential protection is lost.
Arrangements must be made to find an alternative source of colostrum. Contact your vet for
