Sheep and Colic

Many species of animal can suffer from colic. It's most commonly heard of in horses, but sheep can be affected as well. Colic in sheep is a serious issue and means that there is an underlying problem or disease.

  1. Definition

    • Simply defined, colic is pain in the abdomen. It can originate in the liver, kidneys or in the gastrointestinal system (intestines or stomach).

    Signs

    • A sheep with colic will usually kick at his belly and arch his back. He won't have an appetite and will seem restless and uncomfortable.

    Significance

    • Colic in sheep is typically a symptom of problems or diseases, not a disease itself.

    Causes

    • There are several problems and diseases that can cause colic in sheep. Eating poisonous plants, or other environmental toxins, internal parasites, bacterial diseases like enterotoxemia ("overeating disease"), or lactic acidosis (eating too many carbohydrates) can all produce colic as one of the symptoms.

    Treatment

    • Treatment of colic in sheep depends on the cause. Some problems can be easily treated or even avoided through careful worming, feeding and management techniques. Other causes of colic, like bacterial disease, can be fast moving and lethal.