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Common Horse Illnesses: Colic
05/26/2008
Colic in horses is an abdominal pain that results from a gastrointestinal problem. There are many possible causes of colic. Some of these can require major abdominal surgery, and even death.
Colic in horses is an abdominal pain that results from a gastrointestinal problem. There are many possible causes of colic. Some of these can require major abdominal surgery, and even death. It is one of the most common causes of premature death in domesticated horses. The following are a few common types of colic. If these are suspected, a veterinarian should be contacted.
Sand impaction
This is caused when a horse grazes in an area with little grass – dirt is then digested. Dirt and sand collect in the pelvic flexure and the large intestine. It then irritates the lining of the bowel, which will then cause diarrhea. The bowel wall can become inflamed, which can lead to a reduction in colonic mobility and peritonitis. Many cases can be treated with laxatives and fiber supplements, but surgery is sometimes necessary.
Spasmodic colic
Increased peristaltic contractions in the horse’s gastrointestinal tract result in spasmodic colic. It can also be the result of a mild gas buildup. Colic symptoms are usually mild in these cases, and they can be treated with analgesic medication. This can be caused by the ingestion of too much fresh grass.
Pelvic flexure impaction
The pelvic flexure is an area of the intestine where the route narrows and takes a 180-degree turn. Food materials can become lodged in this area. Generally, medications do treat this; however severe impaction can result in surgery. When left untreated, pelvic flexure impaction can lead to death. This can be caused by a horse eating while on box rest, or a horse with dental problems that cannot chew food properly.
Large roundworms
This can be the case in younger horses that were not dewormed properly. If this is suspected, laxatives can be given to help treat this. However, colonic surgery is sometimes necessary. Roundworms can cause blockage and rupture of the small intestine. These are very rare in adult horses, as immunity develops between the ages of six months to a year.
Symptoms of colic can include refusal to eat, straining during defecation, nipping at their own sides, and fewer bowel movements, among others. To prevent colic, consider an elevated feeding surface to reduce the risk of dirt and sand ingestion, always provide clean feed and drinking water, and use a regular feeding schedule.
