Colic is a common disorder that many horse owners will come across at some stage. The condition can be mild or severe enough to cause death. It is an extremely painful condition that usually appears suddenly with the horse pawing the ground, rolling or kicking at the abdomen. There may be flatulence and rumbling noises coming from the bowels.
Some of the most common contributors to colic:
- Feeding a horse immediately after hard work when the horse is tired and hot. It is best to allow the horse to cool down for a few hours before feeding.
- Drinking too much when hot or too soon after feeding. If your horse has a big drink, then wait for a while before feeding.
- Eating too much rich food or frosted grass.
- Feeding mouldy grain or hay, damp or fermented foods.
- Too much new hay or clover.
- Feeding cold water to a hot horse.
There are many other causes of colic, but generally it is due to something they have eaten. Some horses are more prone to digestive problems than others. Prevention is always better than cure, especially as once a horse has developed colic, they are more likely to have repeated attacks at later stages.
It is imperative that action is taken quickly for colic, so that it does not develop into more serious complications.
Homeopathic remedies can be very effective for some forms of colic, especially when given in the early stages. However it is important to call your vet. You can use the remedies whilst waiting for the vet to arrive.
Some of the most common Homeopathic remedies for colic
ACONITE -This is best given at the first sign of the condition.
BELLADONNA -This should be given when the horse has a rapid pulse, sweating and hot.
COLOCYNTH -From eating green food. Motions are watery with flatulence and arched back.
NUX VOMICA -If the attack is brought on by eating indigestible food or overeating. Straining to pass dung or urinate. Horse lies on it’s side looking uneasy, bending head towards flank or kicking at the ground.
ARNICA – This is always best given as a routine remedy for colic.
COLCHICUM -Distention of the abdomen and rumbling of flatus. Lower parts of the bowel become distended and can be felt on the right side. Horse will tend to remain standing unable to strech out legs.
Often more than one remedy is indicated, and a combination remedy may be given for faster relief. It is worth having the remedies on hand, as these emergencies usually always occur on weekends or after-hours.
For further assistance, please Contact Us.
