I have to agree with PH, we use a layer of shavings covered with coastal hay. The mares tend to nibble at it during foaling, which reduces stress and out of over 300 foals in the last 5 years have not had a problem with the hay in the eyes. One thing to watch though after the foal is about 2 - 5 days old is the foal getting shavings impacted in the sides of the mouth from nibbling at them. It is amazing how many times we see this, probally 1 out of 8 or 9 foals. Cheeky little buggers LOL.
John Cherry
Cherryville Farms
