Equine Colic Definition

Colic is the blanket term that refers to diseases that cause abdominal pain. The specific cause of a horse's colic is usually not determined until after the colic is treated. Veterinarians determine the cause of the colic by how the horse responds to treatment.

Organs

The organs involved in colic are the stomach, small intestine, cecum, colon, small colon and rectum.

Signs

A horse may have colic if he kicks at the ground, sweats, is restless, loses his appetite or lies down.

Types

There are many types of diseases that are referred to as colic, but some common ones include intestinal parasites, grass sickness, pelvic flexure impaction, and left or right dorsal displacement.

Treatment

Ninety percent of colic cases can be treated with medicinal care; 10 percent need surgery. Medication for pain relief, intestinal lubricants, intestinal motility modifiers and a modified exercise program are often given by a veterinarian.

Prevention/Solution

To prevent colic in horses, owners should regularly test for parasites, and control them if present. Horses should also have regular dental checkups and a regular feeding routine.

References

• University of Liverpool: Equine Colic
• Equine Colic
• Handbook of Equine Colic

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