Meconium Impaction

Renae DelHomme, DVM 

One of the common problems encountered by a newborn foal is meconium impaction. Meconium is the first fecal material passed by a newborn and is usually passed within the first several hours of life. Meconium can be greenish to dark brown in color and is comprised of digested amnionic fluid, gastrointestinal secretions, bile, and cellular debris that accumulate in the intestinal tract of the late-term fetus. Meconium impaction is the most common cause of colic in the neonatal foal.

Ideally, the foaling would have been attended and meconium passage would be observed. However, this can be easily missed or overlooked. Some clinical signs that can occur with meconium impaction are repeated abdominal straining, excessive swishing of the tail, abdominal distention, depression, lying down frequently, reluctance to suckle due to discomfort, and/or colic. If a meconium impaction is neglected for too long, a foal can quickly become weak, dehydrated, and lethargic from not nursing. Repeated straining can ultimately result in a more severe colic or a ruptured bladder.

Treating a meconium impaction depends on the severity. If caught early, an enema may alleviate the impaction. A high volume enema consisting of a bag with 500-1000 milliliters of fluid using a gravity flow tube is preferred. If the foal is still uncomfortable following an enema or two, further treatment may include intravenous fluids, tubing with mineral oil, or even surgery.

A prophylactic enema administered shortly after birth helps reduce the risk of meconium impaction. If you notice your foal straining repeatedly or showing signs of discomfort, veterinary attention should be seriously considered.