A colicking horse can be an incredibly nerve-wracking experience for any horse owner, and is one of the most common emergencies we see. Colic is a catch-all term for any cause of abdominal pain. Most often, the digestive tract is the source of the problems, but any organ in the abdomen like the liver, spleen, kidneys, or bladder can be involved. Because there is such a wide range in what can cause a horse to colic, there is also a very wide range in symptoms, treatments, and severity of the disease. Signs of colic can include pawing, pacing, rolling, lying down and getting up repeatedly, flank watching, and sweating.
If you notice signs of colic in your horse, contact your veterinarian immediately for advice, including whether or not to give pain relief such as banamine. While this might make a horse more comfortable, it can mask signs of pain that can make determining if there is a more serious issue more difficult. Other questions your veterinarian may ask is if your horse has been eating and drinking normally, is passing manure, or if there is a previous history of colic. While waiting for assistance, your veterinarian will most likely recommend removing food and handwalking, if it is safe to do so.
To diagnose the cause of colic, your veterinarian will start with a good physical examination. The level of the horse’s pain is assessed, as well as hydration status, heart rate, and the sounds made by the gut. A rectal exam will be performed, a stomach tube passed to administer fluids, electrolytes, or laxatives, and an abdominal ultrasound if indicated. Once this information is gathered, they will discuss the different treatment options for whatever type of colic they feel your horse is suffering from. The vast majority of cases can be treated on the farm, but in severe cases where a horse’s pain isn’t able to be managed, more intensive around the clock care is required, or even surgery is needed. Referral to a hospital may also be recommended.
While not all colic is preventable, there are some things you can do to help decrease the risk. Provide a clean, consistent source of water at all times and encourage water intake. Keep as consistent of a diet as possible and make any changes to hay or grain slowly over a period of 2-4 weeks. Routine preventative care, including regular dental care, can also help decrease risk of colic. Consult with your veterinarian about getting a Fecal Egg Count to establish an appropriate deworming schedule, as parasites can also be a cause.
Written By Dr. Maddy Gehin
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