Providing adequate colostrum within two hours of the foal’s life is a crucial management responsibility. In fact, colostrum is the only nutrient the foal should receive during the first 24-48 hours. Colostrum provides antibodies, which protect the foal from disease until it is capable of immune response. Colostrum also provides a vital laxative benefit to help the foal pass the meconium – the first material in the bowel. If a foal does not receive colostrum from the dam, the foal needs to receive colostrum that has been properly stored, or plasma or immunoglobin products administered by your veterinarian.