foal

Foal is the term for a young horse of either sex up to one year old. A foal is usually born after a gestation of about 11 months, and may stand and nurse within hours of birth. The process of giving birth is called foaling. A male foal is typically called a colt, a female foal a filly; once the animal is older than one year it is generally described as a yearling.

During the first days, the foal relies on the mare's colostral milk to obtain antibodies and nutrition. Colostrum is critical for immune protection before the foal’s own immune system is fully developed. Foals begin to nibble solid food while continuing to nurse, and their growth rate is rapid in the first months.

Weaning is commonly planned between four and six months, and may be gradual to reduce stress. After weaning, foals become more independent and may begin basic handling, social interaction with other horses, and early training. Conformation, balance, and coordination develop quickly as they grow toward adolescence.

Care for foals includes routine veterinary checkups, a schedule for vaccinations and dental care, deworming as advised, and attentive hoof care. A safe environment, proper nutrition, and gentle handling support healthy development and reduce the risk of injury during this formative stage.