Study results from INRAE in France showed that foals who stayed with their mothers were much better off in several areas. Their brains developed faster in the parts that control emotions and social behavior and there was stronger connectivity in the default mode network. The researchers were surprised to find that foals with their mothers gained more weight even though they spent less time eating.
Source: Vet Practice Magazine, January 27, 2026. Link.
Study results highlight the benefits of keeping young offspring with their mothers for longer, which could help us improve animal welfare and behavior.”