Colic in Horses
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*Holm-Martin M, Levot GW, Dawson KL. Control of endoparasites in horses with a gel containing moxidectin and praziquantel.
Vet Record 2005; 156: 835-838.
Colic in horses is not a diagnosis instead a broad term used
to describe the signs of abdominal pain. This simple term
can strike fear into horse owners as colic is one of the most
common causes of death in horses. The severity of colic can
range from mild which may resolve itself or severe and
life-threatening that requires medical intervention and
possibly surgery. Colic does not discriminate, it can affect
any horse, any age, breed or size.
As a horse owner it is vital to know the signs of colic.
The signs will vary from case to case and can change as the
condition progresses. Some horses may display a number
of symptoms and others may display only one or two.
Signs of colic to be aware of include;
» Pawing at the ground
» Looking or kicking at the stomach/flank
» Rolling or lying down or getting up and down repeatedly
» Restlessness
» Playing in water bucket, splashing but not drinking
» Grinding teeth
» Sweating
» Rapid breathing and/or increased heart rate
» Decreased gut sounds or lack of normal gut sounds
» Depression or lethargy
» Loss of appetite
» Not passing faeces
There are a number of different types of colic varying in their
severity. A veterinarian will be able to determine the type of
colic after examination and then decide on the best course
of treatment. Types of colic include;
» Gas colic is where there is an excess build-up of fluid or gas
in the gut.
» Spasmodic colic occurs when there is increased abdominal
contractions or spasms.
» Impaction colic is when a blockage forms in the colon usually
of feed, sand, dirt or other indigestible materials.
» Torsion colic (twisted gut) where there is a twist in the
intestines causing a complete blockage.
» Colitis or enteritis is inflammation in the small (enteritis) or
large (colitis) intestines.
» Gastric distension/rupture occurs when the horse gorges on
food or eats food that then swells in the stomach causing the
stomach to expand and possibly burst.
If you ever think your horse is suffering from colic you need
to contact your veterinarian immediately. A case of colic,
especially when severe, requires immediate treatment and can
develop quickly into an emergency situation. Always contact
your vet if you see any signs or symptoms of colic or if you
have any health concerns with your horse.
