Raising
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In Industry
Weaning in managed breeding programs is a carefully planned process designed to reduce stress on both mare and foal. Separation is done gradually, often in stages, with foals kept alongside familiar companions in a calm, supervised environment. The focus is on supporting the foal’s physical and emotional development while allowing the mare time to recover and prepare for future breeding.
In the Wild
Weaning in wild horses is a natural process where a foal gradually becomes independent from its dam and stops nursing. This typically occurs between 9 and 11 months of age, although it can vary depending on environmental factors, the mare’s condition, and whether she is pregnant again. Over time, the foal increases its intake of forage and socialises more with the herd.
NATURE VS NURTURE
When are Thoroughbred foals weaned? And is it stressful?
In the wild, weaning happens gradually between 9-11 months, with foals naturally reducing milk intake while staying with the herd. The mare will also begin to push away the foal and encourage it to forage and socialise.
Thoroughbred foals on-farm are typically weaned between 4–6 months of age. Modern methods of weaning such as group weaning and using nannies drastically reduces stress although it is not completely stress-free, just like a human's first day at school.
"The foal naturally starts to move itself away from its mother at about 4 to 5 months of age"
NATURE VS NURTURE
Are Thoroughbred foals weaned too early?
In the wild, foals are typically weaned between 9–11 months of age, food is often scarce so a foal will cling to its mother for longer as a safety net.
Thoroughbred foals on-farm are typically weaned between 4–6 months of age, slightly earlier than their wild counterparts. Within the breeding industry horses are provided with adequate feed so they will naturally wean themselves much earlier.
”They’re like teenagers at that stage. They just don’t want to hang around with mum, they want to hang out with their mates.”
Discover another life stage
Cut through the noise and get the facts. The Kick Up Breeding Hub is your go-to source for myth-busting and horse-first insights into the world of Thoroughbred breeding. Whether you’re a racing fan, a curious critic, or just want to understand how breeding actually works it’s all here, explained in plain language with scientific backing.
