RESEARCH: WEANING METHODS FOR FOALS

Weaning methods such as abrupt weaning versus gradual weaning (Malinowiski et al., 1990, J. Equine Vet. Sci. 10:363) and abrupt weaning versus paired weaning (Hoffman et al., 1995, J. Anim. Sci. 73:2922) have each been studied to determine foal stress.  Another method of weaning has recently been studied called “take-away”.  In this method, a group of mares and foals is kept in a large paddock.  One mare is removed from the group of mares and foals every three days.  The weaned foal is kept with the other mares and foals with no change in routine.  A cooperative study between The Ohio State University Agriculture and Technology Institute and the University of Kentucky studied abrupt weaning versus take away weaning in a group of nineteen foals.  Body weights were taken from each foal at 2 week intervals for 4 weeks prior to weaning, at weaning, and every 2 weeks after weaning for 6 weeks.  Body weight and average daily gain did not differ for the two groups of foals prior to, or at weaning.  For the 2 weeks after weaning, average daily gain decreased in both groups of foals.  By six weeks post-weaning both groups of foals were growing normally with no difference in rate of gain between the two methods of weaning. 

This study reflects previously noted studies which show that one of the stresses of weaning is a depression in body weight gain with weight gain typically recovering after a few weeks.  It can be concluded then that weaning foals using the take-away method holds no advantage over weaning abruptly with respect to body weight gains. 

Reference:  A comparison of two different weaning methods on foal body weight gain.  D.M. Powell and L.M. Lawrence.  2005.  In: Proceedings of 19th Equine Science Society. Pg 333.