feeding the foal

Question 1

what is the normal feeding behaviour of the foal?

Answer 1

-first, suckle 2-3 hours
-in the first two weeks suckle frequency is 7-8 times per hour
-up to day two intake = 15% of bw
after day 2 intake =25% of body weight to 2.5-3.5%
weight gain - 1-2kg a day

Question 2

what is the composition of colostrum?

Answer 2

• antibodies (igA, IgG)
• they fail to absorb these by enterocytes after 24 hours

Question 3

What id the composition of mature milk?

Answer 3

lipids = 12-13 g/kg
protien = 16-21
ash = 3-4
calcium =0.6-0.9
phosphurous = 0.21-0.6
lacose =69

Question 4

when is foals fermenting ability established

Answer 4

3-4 months

Question 5

when will a creep feed need to be introduced to the foals diet?

Answer 5

3-4 weeks

Question 6

what happens at weaning?

Answer 6

• foal should naturally adapt through loss of milk provided that they are given a creep feed and grass before the time of weaning