How to Prevent Sand Colic in Equines

Colic in horses is defined as abdominal pain usually, but not always, associated with the intestinal tract, according to the University of Kentucky. Sand colic occurs when the animal ingests sand or dirt that obstructs the intestine. This is usually associated with animals kept in pastures that are grazed too close to the ground, causing the animal to pick up some sand as it eats the grass.

Things You'll Need

  • Feed trough
  • Psyllium fiber
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Instructions

    • 1

      Rotate horses off pasture that is heavily grazed. Pastures where grass is so short that the horse's lips touch the ground while grazing should be considered overgrazed.

    • 2

      Feed grain, minerals and other supplements in wood, metal or concrete troughs rather than on the ground. Horses will ingest sand as they pick up the grain or feed if they are fed on the ground.

    • 3

      Check the horse's manure for sand. Pick up six fecal balls and mix with water in a coffee can or other container. Allow the mixture to set for half an hour and pour the liquid and floating organic matter off. If there is more than a tablespoon of sand left in the can, there likely are high accumulations of sand in the horse's digestive tract, putting the animal at risk for sand colic.

    • 4

      Feed psyllium, a water soluble fiber additive, along with the horse's normal grain ration. Include four ounces of psyllium twice a day for seven days each month.