11/02/2025
🪢 Neonatal Maladjustment Syndrome AKA “dummy foal syndrome” affects 1-5% of live foal. These foals fail to recognize their mares and have no interest in nursing. They can be difficult to manage and may not survive without veterinary intervention. They often require round the clock intensive care to keep alive (feeding tube, IV fluids) until they begin nursing on their own. The Madigan Foal Squeeze shown here is a technique developed to reenact the birthing process by applying pressure to the rib cage using ropes. The squeeze triggers biochemical changes in the central nervous system that are critical for transitioning the foal from being asleep in the uterus to awake and conscious at birth. The pressure around their torso causes the foal to go into a sound sleep and the squeeze is held for approximately 20 minutes. Once finished, pressure is released and the foal will awaken themselves. Our goal is they search for their mother and are stimulated to nurse. This technique is most successful when performed on foals less than 3 days old and can be repeated if needed.
Are you expecting a foal this year? Are you prepared and aware of the normal milestones your foal should reach in their first 48 hours of life? If not, please call 918-827-8000 to speak to one of our vets today! You can also foal at Pine Ridge Equine and take the stress off of yourself! 🚨 Their first 48 hours of life are crucial for their future health and knowing what’s right/wrong will save you $$$ in the long run.
