Colic is a condition that every horse owner knows. Colic is a collective term for abdominal pain, which can have various causes. For example, a horse can suffer from gas colic, sand colic, spasmodic colic, or impaction colic. If colic is suspected, it is always advisable to contact the vet. The vet can assess whether it is necessary to visit immediately or if you can wait a little longer. You can also discuss whether it is wise to walk the horse and whether it is allowed to eat and drink; this depends on the cause of the colic. Based on the cause, a further treatment plan can be made.

Gas Colic in Horses

Gas colic is a result of gas accumulation in the intestines, which occurs when too much gas builds up in the large intestine. The large intestine produces excessive gas when sugars that have not been fully digested in the small intestine enter the large intestine. A major change in feed or a (partial) obstruction of the intestine can also be causes. There are several measures that can help prevent gas colic. Ensure a gradual transition when adjusting the feed ration, limit the intake of spring or autumn grass, feed small amounts several times a day, and have your horse's teeth checked regularly. Good teeth are the basis for good digestion.

Sand Colic in Horses

Sand colic in horses can arise from ingesting sand that accumulates in the digestive system. The irritation of the intestinal lining and the obstruction of the intestinal lumen can together lead to colic. Horses can ingest sand by, among other things, eating short grass, eating roughage from the ground, or deliberately eating sand. In case of sand colic, the vet can administer paraffin, for example. This is not absorbed by the body but has a laxative effect and can thus help to remove the sand. The vet can also recommend giving the horse a psyllium course. In some cases, surgery is necessary.

To prevent sand colic, you can take various measures. If you feed the horse outside, do not place the hay on the ground, but for example, in a feeding trough. If the hay contains a lot of dust, you can immerse it in water before feeding. Additionally, you can give a monthly psyllium course if your horse ingests a lot of sand or is sensitive to sand colic. If your horse deliberately licks up sand, it is wise to check whether it is getting enough minerals.

Spasmodic Colic in Horses

Spasmodic colic occurs because the muscles in the intestines contract, causing (part of) the intestines to spasm. Various factors can cause this, including feed changes, stress, and worm infections. Sometimes the horse has eaten something wrong, which causes digestive upset.

Impaction Colic in Horses

Impaction colic can occur because the intestine is blocked with feed, for example, because a horse eats too much straw, drinks too little, or does not chew its feed properly. If the intestine is blocked, the manure cannot pass, which puts tension on the intestine and causes the horse pain. To prevent impaction colic, you can consider various factors. For example, ensure high-quality roughage, unlimited drinking water, sufficient exercise, gradual feed transitions, and regularly check the horse's manure.

Colic in Horses - Symptoms

The symptoms of colic differ per horse; one horse shows clearer signs than another. Common symptoms include:

• Fleming (curling the upper lip)
• Frequent yawning
• Pawwing or scraping with the front legs
• Looking back and kicking at the belly
• Lethargy
• Reduced appetite
• Regularly lying down and getting up
• Rolling or trying to roll
• Sweating
• Standing stretched out
• Increased heart rate and faster breathing