Colic is a term used to describe abdominal pain in horses and is something many horse owners will encounter at some stage. It can range from a mild, temporary digestive upset to a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate veterinary treatment.
Colic can appear suddenly, with signs such as pawing at the ground, restlessness, looking or kicking at the abdomen, lying down, rolling, sweating or repeatedly getting up and down. You may also notice changes in gut sounds, passing of gas, reduced appetite or a lack of manure.
Some common factors that can contribute to digestive upset and colic include:
- Sudden changes to a horse's diet, including introducing new hay, pasture, feeds or supplements too quickly.
- Eating large amounts of rich feed or lush pasture, particularly when a horse is not accustomed to it.
- Consuming large quantities of grain or other concentrated feeds.
- Poor-quality, mouldy or spoiled hay or feed.
- Abrupt changes in the amount or type of hay being fed.
- Changes in pasture, particularly moving onto lush spring or rapidly growing grass.
- Insufficient water intake or changes in normal drinking patterns.
- Sand ingestion, particularly in horses grazing or eating from sandy ground.
- Dental problems that interfere with proper chewing and digestion.
- Reduced movement or prolonged periods of confinement.
- Stress, changes in routine or travelling.
- Parasites or other underlying digestive problems.
There are many different types and causes of colic, and sometimes the exact cause cannot be identified. Some horses also appear to be more prone to digestive disturbances than others.
Good management and prevention can help reduce the risk of colic. Maintaining a consistent feeding routine, making dietary changes gradually, providing good-quality forage and ensuring your horse has access to clean, fresh water are all important parts of supporting healthy digestion.
Always take signs of colic seriously
It is important to act quickly if your horse shows signs of colic. While some mild cases may resolve with simple management, others can deteriorate rapidly and may require medication, intensive treatment or surgery.
If your horse is showing signs of colic, contact your veterinarian promptly.
While waiting for your vet, follow their instructions and monitor your horse closely. Remove access to feed unless your veterinarian advises otherwise, and avoid allowing the horse to roll violently if this can be done safely.
Homeopathy is a valuable option to administer while waiting for the vet!
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.
A valuable remedy to have on hand is HomeoVet Digestive Ease.
For further assistance, please Contact Us.