In this article
Dummy Foals by a Vet – 2025 Guide to Neonatal Encephalopathy Signs, Causes & Emergency Care 🧠🐴
By Dr Duncan Houston, BVSc
Introduction
Dummy foals, also known as neonatal encephalopathy or perinatal asphyxia syndrome, are newborn foals that begin life normally but quickly develop neurological signs within their first 24 hours. In 2025, prompt recognition and hospital-based intensive care offer the best chance of survival for these fragile foals.
What Is a Dummy Foal? 🧠
- A foal born without symptoms but develops neurological issues within 24 hours
- Caused by decreased oxygen to the brain—before, during, or after birth
- Can affect multiple body systems beyond the brain
Alternate Names 📚
- Neonatal encephalopathy
- Perinatal asphyxia syndrome
- Hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE)
Common Symptoms of Dummy Foals ⚠️
- Lack of suckle reflex
- Depression or disinterest in the mare
- Wandering, head pressing, or aimless movement
- Seizures (mild to severe)
- Muscle tremors or uncoordinated gait
- Failure to nurse within 2–3 hours of birth
What Causes Dummy Foal Syndrome? 🔍
- Difficult birth (dystocia)
- Premature placental separation before or during foaling
- Oxygen deprivation in utero or during delivery
- Unknown causes in some cases (idiopathic hypoxia)
Systems Affected by Dummy Foal Syndrome 🧬
- Neurological: Seizures, coma, poor coordination
- Gastrointestinal: Delayed motility, colic, poor absorption
- Cardiovascular: Weak pulses, poor perfusion
- Respiratory: Difficulty breathing, oxygen need
- Renal and endocrine: Poor urine output, hormonal imbalance
When to Suspect Dummy Foal Syndrome 🕵️♂️
- Foal doesn't stand or nurse within 2 hours of birth
- Sudden signs of behavioral or motor abnormalities
- Any foal with seizures, weakness, or disorientation
Diagnosis 🩺
- Based on clinical signs and history (birth trauma, high-risk pregnancy)
- Blood tests: Check glucose, electrolytes, and organ function
- Neurological exam: Assesses brain function and reflexes
Intensive Care Treatment Plan 🏥
1. Seizure Control 💊
- Diazepam, midazolam, or phenobarbital may be used
- Rapid control of seizures is essential to prevent brain damage
2. Fluid & Electrolyte Therapy 💧
- Corrects dehydration and electrolyte imbalances
- Monitored closely to avoid overhydration
3. Oxygen Therapy 🫁
- Some foals require nasal oxygen supplementation or ventilator support
4. Nutrition Support 🍼
- Tube feeding or IV nutrition for foals that can’t nurse
- Colostrum or plasma transfusion may be required in immunocompromised foals
5. Brain Swelling Management 💊
- Medications like mannitol or DMSO may be used to reduce cerebral edema
Recovery Outlook 🩻
- Some foals make a full recovery with early intensive care
- Others may have long-term neurological issues
- Prompt treatment is the key to a better prognosis
Case Example: Dummy Colt with Seizures
- Colt born after red bag delivery (placenta separated early)
- Initially stood, but lost suckle reflex and had seizures at 12 hours
- Admitted to ICU for IV fluids, seizure meds, oxygen, and nutrition
- After 5 days of care, began to nurse again
- Discharged at 10 days and had full recovery
FAQs About Dummy Foals
Q: Can dummy foals recover completely?
A: Yes—with aggressive, early care many foals can thrive and grow normally.
Q: What causes seizures in dummy foals?
A: Seizures are caused by brain swelling and lack of oxygen—immediate control is essential.
Q: Is dummy foal syndrome preventable?
A: Not always, but closely monitoring pregnant mares and managing dystocia quickly reduces risk.
Conclusion
Dummy foals are fragile and often arrive in critical condition. Early signs may be subtle, such as slow nursing or disorientation. In 2025, the most important step is immediate hospitalization and intensive care to support the nervous system, stabilize vital organs, and prevent further damage. If your foal displays any unusual behavior, weakness, or fails to nurse in the first hours of life, get veterinary help immediately.
Concerned about a weak or neurologic foal? Visit AskAVet.com or download our app 📱 to consult Dr Duncan Houston and our neonatal ICU team. 🩺🐴