A foal should be up and nursing 1 hour after birth. They need the mare’s colostrum to obtain antibodies. If they don’t receive good quality colostrum they can become septic (failure of passive transfer).
It is crucial for your foal to have a physical examination and a blood test to measure IgG levels (antibodies from colostrum). This should be done12-24 hours after birth.
Harrison Equine provides 24 hour neonatal intensive care when needed.