What to Do With a Horse With Colic When No Vet Is Available

Causes

• Colic can be caused by an impaction in the intestines, either from food or sand build-up, or simply from gas. It also can be caused by intestinal spasms, a stomach rupture, inflammation of the intestines, or a twisting or displacement of the intestines.

Symptoms

• A horse with colic is likely to display symptoms that will let you know it is in pain. The horse might lie down at a time when it normally wouldn't or go back and forth between lying down and standing up. It might bite at its belly or turn its head toward its belly, paw at the ground, kick at its belly with a hind leg, stand with its body stretched out, or attempt to roll on the ground. If your horse is exhibiting any of these signs, it is important to act right away.

What to Do

• Be careful when handling a horse that is colicky, since it can become violent if it is in a lot of pain.

  If you cannot reach your veterinarian, attempt to contact a different veterinarian or another equine professional. Even if he cannot come see your horse, he can still offer you guidance and help you properly care for your sick horse.

  While some cases of colic require surgery or in-depth medical attention, many cases can be treated with at-home care. Begin by taking away your horse's food. Do not allow your horse to eat its hay or grain at this time. Small amounts of water are OK. Walking your horse at an easy pace can help with some cases of colic, as it encourages the contents of the intestines to move along--this will help if the horse has a mild impaction or gas.

  According to KBR Horse Health Information, while your horse should not be eating hay, you can feed it a warm bran mash. This will be especially beneficial if you want to medicate your horse.

  Since your horse will be in a lot of pain, medication such as Bute, Banamine or aspirin can be used. However, do not attempt to medicate your horse if your veterinarian has not previously instructed you on how to do so and given you the proper dosing instructions, or if an equine professional has not suggested you do so for your horse's colic.

  If your veterinarian cannot see your horse, James Naviaux, DVM, recommends giving your horse 16 oz of Milk of Magnesia. Use a syringe that is similar to a turkey baster and fill it with the Milk of Magnesia. Elevate your horse's head, put the syringe into the corner of her mouth and slowly administer the substance. Only do this while your horse is standing up.

  Monitor your horse closely for several hours after it appears to be feeling better. It is OK for it to lie down, but do your best to prevent it from rolling.