How to Feed a Horse Psyllium for Sand Colic

Sand colic is caused by a build-up of sand, dirt, and other detritus that the horse ingests while eating. It is most common in dry climates, where the soil is clay- or sand-based, and usually results when the horse spills feed on the ground and then eats sand and dirt along with the feed. One common way to prevent this problem is to feed your horse a psyllium-based supplement.

Things You'll Need

  • Psyllium-based feed supplement
  • Measuring scoop
  • Horse feed
  • Bucket
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Instructions

  1. Feeding psyllium to prevent sand colic

    • 1

      Begin by finding a psyllium-based supplement designed to be fed to horses. These can be found at your local feed store, or ordered through livestock supply companies.

    • 2

      Place your horse's feeding bucket up off the ground, and secure it so it cannot be knocked over or dumped onto the ground. This is important; you don't want your horse to ingest more dirt and sand.

    • 3

      Following the directions on the package that your psyllium-based supplement came in, mix the prescribed amount of supplement with a portion of sticky sweetfeed. It is necessary to add some sort of enhancement, preferably one with a little liquid or syrup, to coat the horse's feed so the psyllium will stick to it.

    • 4

      Mix this sweetfeed into a regular-sized portion of horse feed and give it to your horse. Monitor the first few feedings to make sure the product is being ingested.

    • 5

      Make sure the horse has plenty of water available at all times. Psyllium is bulk-forming, and needs fluid to expand to pass through the gut. It will pick up the sand and grit as it goes through.