Posted by Patty Stiller on April 26, 2000 at 00:21:09:
In Reply to: Orphan Foal Foundering posted by Tammy Martin on April 23, 2000 at 21:53:12:
: We have a 2 month old foal that her mother just died. We were feeding her foal lac and oats, very small amounts and she started swelling just above the hooves. We called the vet, he said founder. He said to stare her. How can you stave a baby that is struggling already? She does have some marks on the swollen areas like she has hurt herself. Any suggestions on nutrician for a foal in this situation to avoid hoof problems. She does not have access to green grass but she is getting hay.
I'm sorry but I cannot answer the nutritional aspect of raising an oprphan foal. I suspect that your vet feels the baby is getting way too much of whatever you ae feeding. I would follow his/her advice, or if you are still unsure take the foal to a teaching veterinary hospital . As to the feet, I am truly concerned if a foal that young has experienced founder....you will need the help of a VERY experienced farrier who can work closely with your vet on the hoof care in this case. Sorry for the loss of your mare, and best of luck, Patty