Colic
Colic is an umbrella term used to describe clinical signs of abdominal pain or discomfort in a horse or pony. It is a word that many of us are all too familiar with because colic is not only a common condition, it is also the biggest cause of death in horses worldwide.
There are six broad categories covering the types of colic seen: spasmodic, tympanic (flatulent or gassy), impaction, sand, displacement and strangulation.
Signs to look out for:
Lying down more than usual, or trying to lie down
Rolling
Unexplained sweating
Walking in circles or around the stable
Reduced appetite
Passing no or very few droppings
Change in consistency of droppings
Pain shown by flank watching, pawing or kicking at the belly
Dull and depressed in character
Lowered head position
Increased heart rate
Reduced or no gut sounds
Change in the colour of gums from pale pink to very red or blue/purple
Increased breathing rate
This is not an exhaustive list, so be mindful of other signs that may indicate your horse is in pain or uncomfortable. As a rule, it is useful to know your horse’s normal TPR rates (temperature, pulse and respiration) so that if you suspect they are off colour you can check to see if there is any difference in their vital signs.
Treatment
If you suspect your horse or pony has colic, phone the vet immediately. Colic is an emergency so a vet will need to come and see your horse as soon as possible.
How they treat your horse will depend on the type and severity of the colic. The most common treatments will initially involve pain relief, usually after the vet has examined your horse. This examination might include a rectal examination. A nasogastric intubation (stomach tubing) may also be performed. Sometimes referral to an equine veterinary hospital is needed should your horse require more specialist treatment.
Prevention
Ensure plenty of forage in your horse’s diet
Keep to regular feeding times
The introduction of any changes to diet must be gradual
Feed hard feed little and often
Do not feed grass clippings or unsoaked sugar beet
Ensure a fresh supply of water is always available
Avoid sandy grazing if possible
Have a good worming programme in place
Have regular dental checks
Avoid changing any regular routines, such as paddock versus stable time
Try to stop your horse eating excess bedding
Do not feed your horse prior to hard exercise
Do not feed your horse immediately after exercise
Warm up and cool down your horse when schooling
The above covers a very small section of information about a huge subject, but it should give a broad idea of what colic is, what to look out for and how to help your horse. Remember, if you are ever in doubt, call your vet.