First off I am so sorry about your dear mare. She is still watching you, though, and she left that baby fit and healthy, so we've got to get you through this. It is emotionally draining so make sure you get lots of sleep and eat properly. I had a complete physical breakdown once the first foal I did was out of the woods, just collapsed. So- learn from me!! I've never had any use for bottles with a baby that is not going to go back on Mama- have you tried for a Foster Mama?? If you are not going that route, get him onto a bowl ASAP. I found they took the bowl more readily. Make the hole in the teat bigger - you are using a Lamb Teat, right??Stick the teat in the side of the mouth and let the milk dribble. Once he starts to swallow move it slowly round to the front and move it back and forth until he takes hold. Do not hold it too high- remember he is used to Mama's height bag, the instinct is to hold it right up but he will have been nursing with his head on one side and little above shoulder level, try to keep it there. Offer him the bowl/bucket before and after each feed, so he has a choice. Milk in the bottle should be warmish, milk in the bowl/bucket can be cold, which is another plus at at 2am (believe me!!) The first one I did was from birth so we had to get the colostrum off the mare, at least your darling did that for you, so you have no worries about health and antibodies. I would definitely get the Vet to tube him whilst you are working out what to do. The very best of Luck, keep us posted on everything , if you can, but make sure you pace yourself, it's a LONG journey!!
