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Types
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Colic can come in many forms, and the severity depends on the cause. In the case of impaction or other blockage, the colic can be quite dangerous and may require surgery, which is also the case in a twisted gut or "torsion" of the digestive tract. Some colic is caused by gas, and it is for this type that Maalox can be of assistance.
Gas Colic
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Gas colic or spasmodic colic can be caused by stomach upset due to food issues or other simple causes. When this occurs, the guts have sharp pains, which in turn can lead to the horse's rolling and causing a more serious form of colic, such as a twisted gut. By eliminating the gas and soothing the gut, the horse can then calm itself and the colic will pass.
Time Frame
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If you intend to treat a colicky horse with Maalox, the best time is as soon as you notice the symptoms. It is important not to treat blindly. If you do not have previous experience in treating colic, do not attempt to treat a colicky horse at all. Call a veterinarian immediately.
Dosage
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If you are certain that the colic is either caused by gas or is spasmodic colic, administer the Maalox at a dose according to weight. Take the dosing recommendation for an adult human and multiply it to meet your horse's approximate weight. This is the amount with which you will then dose the horse. Administer the Maalox orally via a large syringe (20cc size).
Benefits
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As an antacid and a coating solution, Maalox works to eliminate the gas that may be causing your horse gut pain, and can also soothe the gut if there are ulcers or other causes making it spasm. When this relief occurs, the horse's colic symptoms will ease and recovery should be quick.
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Maalox for Equine Colic
Colic is the number-one killer of horses. Even though it can be treated successfully in a majority of cases, it is still important to realize how serious an episode of colic truly is. While more serious colic cannot be remedied with simple medications, some cases can be resolved with basic treatments.