Horse ColicWhat is horse colic and what is the best way to prevent it? Unfortunately colic in horses is quite common with varying types and degrees of severity. The dictionary term for "colic" simply means "abdominal pain". Colic in a horse can indicate very mild to life threatening symptoms. Knowing and understanding these symptoms and how to act on them can save the life of the horse. Below we will be discussing the different types of colic along with the accompanying signs. We will also be looking at potential treatment options, prevention strategies, and risk factors.
Types of Colic There are different types of horse colic, usually categorized based on their etiology or cause. We have assembled some of the most common types of colic. Spasmodic Colic: This type of horse colic is caused by an increased onset of contractions through the gastrointestinal tract. This is one of the milder forms of colic with mild signs and symptoms exhibited by the horse. The horse will generally respond with medication. You should call your veterinarian when your horse presents with signs of colic. Impaction Colic: This type of horse colic is caused by an intestinal blockage from the ingestion of normal or abnormal material. A sand impaction is one example of this type of colic. If a blockage is severe enough to prevent movement of gas and other material, the horse is at risk of infection and may need surgery to remove the obstruction. Always consult your veterinarian. If you have a horse that grazes on sandy or more heavily grazed pastures, they are more at risk of ingesting sand or dirt. If you feel your horse may be at a higher risk for ingesting sand or dirt while grazing, there are sand removal products you can give your horse to prevent impactions. Roundworms have also been indicated in causing impactions in the intestine. Roundworms can cause blockages in the small intestine and are more common in younger horses with poorly managed deworming programs. Torsion Colic: A torsion occurs when a portion of the horse's intestine twists upon itself. Likely sites for torsions are in the small intestine or colon. Torsions can result in the blockage or stopping of blood flow to certain areas of the gastrointestinal tract which can be fatal. If blood flow is compromised, it becomes very painful for the horse and emergency surgery will likely be indicated. Displacement Colic: In this type of horse colic, portions of the intestine become trapped among other structures or organs in the abdomen. For example, in a left dorsal displacement the left dorsal colon becomes displaced and trapped above the spleen. Surgery may be needed to correct, but not in all cases. Ulceration: Horses produce stomach acid constantly and ulcers can occur for various reasons. Stress, feeding programs, types of feed, or over-use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Ulcers are common in horses and can easily be treated with the involvement of a veterinarian.
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Signs and Symptoms With the many types of horse colic, there are also a wide variety of signs and symptoms exhibited. Some horses are more sensitive than others and may display the following signs more readily, where others may wait until the cause of colic has advanced to a more serious phase. Some common symptoms to watch for in your horse include:
Treatment Options As always, make sure you contact your vet as soon as you notice signs of colic or possible abnormal behavior. A vet can offer you a more definitive diagnosis and refer you for emergency services if needed. Mild forms of horse colic, such as with spasmodic colic, can be easily treated with medications. More severe forms of colic, such as torsions, may require quick action and emergency surgery to save the horse's life. There is really no way to self diagnose and treat colic if it is suspected, it can be fatal for your horse.
Prevention Strategies Horse colic occurrences can be reduced by a few simple horse management methods. Decreasing access to simple carbohydrates, making sure feed and drinking water are clean, and feeding horses off the ground. Make sure you stick to a regular feeding and nutrition schedule with a proper and routine deworming program. As mentioned above, there are products available to aid in the removal of sand or dirt if you have a horse with a higher likelihood of ingesting some of these materials. Remember to consult your veterinarian with any specific questions regarding horse colic prevention.
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Know what you can do on a daily basis is key to protecting and reducing the risks of colic in your barn.
