What Are the Treatments for Colic in a Horse?

Colic is a discomfort or pain in the abdomen or belly region. Only about 10 percent of horses die from colic, even though colic is the leading natural cause of premature death among horses.

  1. Forms of colic

    • Parasites, such as bloodworms, can cause a horse to colic. Gas build-up, impaction or blockage of the intestine and sand, known as sand colic, can all cause a horse to colic.

    Signs of Colic

    • There are several symptoms of colic. Your horse may bite or kick at his abdomen or flank area. He may also lie down, roll and get up constantly. The horse may paw at the ground showing discomfort, curl his lip or stretch out as if he needs to urinate.

    Treating Minor Colic

    • At the first sign of colic, notify your vet. Take the horse's feed away, but offer small amounts of water periodically. Lead the horse around at a walk or trot for 15 to 20 minutes. You can also use banamine to help relax the horse's belly, if the colic is mild. Banamine comes in a paste, granule or injection form.

    Extreme case of colic

    • Call your vet immediately. Extreme cases may require surgery. Do not allow your horse to roll, as this may cause a twisted gut, which can be fatal.

    Preventing colic

    • Feeding regularly and providing clean water daily is key to preventing colic. Regularly deworm your horse, alternating the drugs ivermectin, pyraantel pamoate and benzimidazole.