Emergency Treatment of Horse Colic

Colic is the term used to describe abdominal discomfort in horses. It can be mild or severe, with severe cases requiring emergency treatment from a veterinarian. In the most severe cases, surgery is required to alleviate the problem. Colic is the leading cause of natural death in horses.

  1. Causes

    • Colic can be caused by sudden changes in feed, bad or moldy feed, ingestion of sand, overfeeding, or an irregular feed schedule. Twisted intestines and parasites can also cause colic. Dry bran or fine grain can pack together in a lump, causing impaction that leads to colic. Poison or eating materials other than feed are additional causes.

    Symptoms

    • A horse with colic will be restless and uneasy. She may be lethargic or refuse to eat. Stomping a hind leg, pawing, looking at or biting her stomach or sides, and repeatedly lying down or rolling are all common signs. Your horse may be sweating, groaning, stretching as if to urinate, and unable to defecate.

    Early Treatment

    • If your horse is obviously uncomfortable for no clear reason, colic is the most likely cause. It is very important not to let a colicky horse roll. Rolling can cause the intestines to twist, possibly necessitating surgery. If you determine your horse has colic, call your veterinarian, then do everything you can to keep your horse from lying down and rolling. If possible, walk her for 15 minutes, then let her rest. Do not administer any medication without approval of your vet. Withhold food and water until the vet arrives.

    Veterinary Care

    • Your veterinarian will evaluate your horse, attempting to discern the cause of the colic. He will examine your horse’s vital signs, mucous membrane color and abdominal sounds. He may ask you questions regarding your horse’s feed, exercise and housing. He may do a rectal exam. Veterinary treatment will then consist of relieving the pain, providing support and treating the cause of the colic. Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medication will be administered, and in severe cases your horse may be tranquilized. Fluids may be given intravenously. Depending on the specific cause of the colic, the vet may administer laxatives or muscle relaxers. If there is a twisted intestine, your horse may be anesthetized and rolled on her back or surgery may be required.

    Prevention

    • Prevention is the best medicine when it comes to colic. Follow a regular deworming schedule and include a rotation of ivermectin. Keep a regular feeding schedule and don’t make sudden changes in type or amount of feed. Provide shelter and regular exercise. Take care when feeding alfalfa pellets, and be sure to soak feeds such as beet pulp as directed. A wheat bran mash fed once a week will increase intestinal function and may help remove sand from your horse’s digestive system.