Some foals contract foal lameness at the end of the first week of life. The disease is often caused by a bacterial infection of the umbilical trunk.

 

Foal lameness is manifested by stiffness and swelling of the joints, loss of appetite and increased temperature, and in advanced stages also by diarrhoea, nasal discharge, swollen lymph nodes and breathing difficulties. If foal lameness is not treated in time, it is usually fatal.

 

To determine if the foal has foal lameness, palpate the joints and check for increased warmth and pain reactions. Take the temperature, higher than 39 degrees is suspicious.

 

Put the foal on its back and check the navel for wetness.

 

If you suspect that the foal might actually be suffering from foal lameness, call the vet immediately.