Each week a foal lives, it increases the probability of a long life. The first 48-72 hours are a critical time. If a foal acts differently than expected, assume that the foal is sick or injured. Now a few foals defy normal behavior. So it's wise to watch each foal's actions and attitudes two or three times daily.
Foals normally stand and nurse within three hours of birth.
The suckling reflex is usually present within 20 minutes after birth. Foals will nurse every half hour to hour, or an average of 18 times per day. It's possible for them to consume 21-25 percent of their body weight daily. Frequently check the mare's udder. A full udder dripping milk indicates that the foal hasn't nursed, which is a sure sign it's sick.