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COLIC
Understanding the Digestive Tract and its Functions UNDERSTANDING & CONTROLLING COLIC
OWNERS, BEWARE. THE NUMBER ONE KILLER OF HORSES IS COLIC! But colic is not a disease. Rather it is a combination of signs that alert us to abdominal pain in the horse. Colic can range from mild to severe, but it should never be ignored. That's because many of the conditions that cause colic can become life-threatening in a relatively short period of time. Only by quickly and accurately recognizing colic -- and seeking qualified veterinary help -- can the chance for recovery be maximized.
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RECOGNIZING COLIC
A major problem for you as a horse owner is identifying the signs of colic. That's because signs can vary greatly between individuals and may also depend on the severity of the pain. However, among the more common signs are:
Turning the head toward the flank
Pawing
Kicking or biting at the abdomen
Stretching out as if to urinate without doing so
Repeatedly lying down and getting up or
attempting to do so
Rolling, especially violent rolling
Sitting in a dog-like position, or lying on the back
Lack of appetite (anorexia)
Putting head down to water without drinking
Lack of bowel movements, as evidenced by the
small number of manure piles
Absence of, or reduced, digestive sounds
Sweating
Rapid respiration and/or flared nostrils
Elevated pulse rate (greater than 52 beats per minute)
Depression
Lip curling (Flehmen response)
Cool extremities
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TAKING IMMEDIATE ACTION
Time is perhaps the most critical factor if colic is to be successfully treated. While a number of cases resolve without medical intervention, a significant percentage do require prompt medical care, including emergency surgery. If you suspect your horse is suffering from colic, the following action plan is suggested:
1. Remove all food and water.
2. Notify your veterinarian immediately.
3. Be prepared to provide the following specific information:
Pulse rate
Respiratory rate (breathing)
Rectal temperature
Color of mucous membranes
Capillary refill time (tested by pressing on gums adjacent to teeth, releasing, then counting the seconds it takes for color to return)
Behavioral signs, such as pawing, kicking, rolling, depression, etc.
Digestive noises, or lack of them
Bowel movements, including color, consistency and frequency
Any recent changes in management, feeding, or exercise
Medical history, including deworming and any past episodes of abdominal pain
Breeding history and pregnancy status if the patient is a mare, and recent breeding history if the patient is a stallion
Insurance status and value of the horse (NOTE: The insurance carrier should be notified if surgery or euthanasia is being considered).
4. Keep horse as calm and comfortable as possible. Allow the animal to lie down if it appears to be resting and is not at risk of injury.
5. If the horse is rolling or behaving violently, attempt to walk the horse slowly.
6. Do not administer drugs unless specifically directed to do so by your equine practitioner. Drugs may camouflage problems and interfere with accurate diagnosis.
7. Follow your veterinarian's advice exactly and await his or her arrival.
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