Here at Running Springs, we are officially deep into foal watch, and if you have ever been through a foaling season, you know that preparation is everything. We are waiting on our first baby of the season and it got me thinking. I have never really shared what I keep on hand to prepare for a horse birth. So today, I want to walk you through the essentials I include in my foaling kit and why each item matters when it comes to horse breeding and welcoming a healthy foal into the world.
Why a Foaling Kit Matters
Before we dive in, I want to say this clearly. Every mare, every farm, and every situation is different. This is not a one size fits all rulebook. If you are new to foaling or horse breeding, please talk with your veterinarian and build a foaling kit based on their guidance. What I am sharing is what works for us and what has been shaped by experience, mistakes, and a few late night surprises.
Must Have Foaling Supplies
One of the most important things I keep stocked at all times is enemas. Passing meconium, which is the thick black first manure a foal produces, is critical. If a foal cannot pass it, they can become uncomfortable very quickly, and it can turn into a serious situation. After one very memorable late night run to the pharmacy years ago, enemas are now something I always keep on hand. Every foal here receives at least two within the first 12 hours.
I also keep iodine ready for immediate navel care. As soon as a foal is born, we dip the navel at least twice. That open navel is an easy entry point for bacteria, especially in a stall environment. Keeping it clean and sterile helps prevent infections that can quickly become dangerous.
Blankets and Warmth for Newborn Foals
Because many of our foals arrive during colder months, baby blankets are a must. I keep multiple sizes available since you never know how big or small a foal will be. A chilled foal can struggle to stand, nurse, and regulate body temperature, so having clean, soft, washable blankets ready can make a huge difference in those first hours.
Tools That Support Early Health
A thermometer is something I never want to be without. If a foal starts acting lethargic or off, being able to give your vet an accurate temperature helps them make faster and better decisions. I also keep syringes, needles, alcohol, and a sharps container to stay organized and safe.
Another simple but useful item is baling twine. When a mare's placenta is hanging after birth, tying it up prevents her from stepping on it and helps gravity do its job naturally. It is a small thing that can prevent big problems.
Medications to Discuss With Your Vet
This is where working closely with your veterinarian really matters. I keep Banamine on hand in both paste and liquid form, but it is only used under specific circumstances. Timing matters, especially because Banamine can stop contractions, which you do not want if the placenta has not passed yet.
Oxytocin is another medication I keep available with veterinary guidance. It can help stimulate contractions if a mare is struggling to pass her placenta and, in some cases, assist with bonding if a mare is slow to accept her foal. These are not medications to use casually, and they should always be part of a vet guided plan.
Towels, Salt, and Simple Essentials
You can never have too many towels. From drying off a foal to helping stimulate them if mom is tired, towels are used constantly during and after birth. Salt is another item I like to keep nearby. If a mare is slow to lick her foal, sprinkling salt on the baby can encourage her to start bonding and stimulating her newborn naturally.
I also keep pH test strips on hand. When a mare has milk but is not showing clear signs of labor, these strips can help estimate how close she might be to foaling. While not required, they can be surprisingly accurate and helpful during long nights of waiting.
Bedding, Buckets, and Final Prep
For foaling, I prefer straw bedding. Straw tends to stay drier and cleaner for a newborn foal and creates less dust than shavings. I also keep a clean muck bucket ready to collect the placenta so the vet can check that it is complete. Retained placenta is extremely serious and needs immediate attention.
Final Thoughts on Preparing for a Foal
Preparing for a horse birth is about planning, flexibility, and knowing when to call your vet. No foaling kit replaces professional care, but being prepared gives both you and your mare the best chance at a smooth experience. If you are beginning your horse breeding journey, I hope this gives you a solid place to start and sparks good conversations with your veterinary team.
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