Research published in Nature Communications has revealed that horse foals benefit from prolonged contact with their mothers, which has positive implications for their brain structure, function, and social development. The study, conducted by a team led by David Barrière, involved brain scans and assessments on 24 domestic horse foals from the age of six to thirteen months.
The foals were divided into two groups: one group was weaned from their mothers at six months, while the other group remained with their mothers until the end of the study. The findings indicated that foals with extended maternal contact exhibited increased maturation in several critical areas of the brain, including the anterior cingulate cortex and the amygdala, which are key to emotional and physiological regulation.
The study also highlighted significant behavioral differences. Foals that stayed with their mothers engaged in more positive social interactions, explored their environments more thoroughly, and experienced greater weight gain, even with reduced feeding time. These foals demonstrated higher concentrations of circulating lipids, such as triglycerides and cholesterol, and lower levels of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress.
David Barrière and his colleagues emphasized the importance of this research, stating that the results provide compelling evidence for delaying the weaning process in foals under human care. They argue that the maternal bond plays a crucial role in the overall well-being of domestic horses, positioning them as valuable subjects for studying caregiver-offspring relationships in larger mammals.
This research was funded by the European HORIZON 2020 Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions and co-supported by the Institut Français du Cheval et de l’Équitation. It underscores the need for a reevaluation of standard weaning practices in horse breeding and care, suggesting that fostering mother-foal relationships can lead to healthier and more socially adept animals.
The study not only sheds light on the immediate benefits of maternal contact but also raises questions about the long-term effects of early separation on social skills and overall health in domestic horses. As the research continues, it may pave the way for improved practices in equine management and welfare.
