WHEN it comes to weaning, the age of the foal is less important than its physical and psychological maturity. Animals on the point of weaning should be in good health and accustomed to eating concentrates as well as forage, to ensure they can meet their nutritional demands without a milk supply. The foal should be naturally spending less time with the mother and exhibiting more independent behaviour. Accustom them to a daily routine of handling, being led and having feet picked up well before weaning. This helps to avoid additional stress when managing the foal on its own.

Weaning is stressful for both the mare and foal, but adult horses are generally better able to handle the disruption. Therefore, try and alter the mare’s routine by removing her, rather than expecting the foal to adapt to the loss of its dam at the same time as it moves to a new location. If possible, get the foal accustomed to other horses as companions by introducing them to a calm and sensible adult horse before weaning.