Causes of Equine Colic

Colic in horses. Most horse owners would be aware of it, but probably do not fully understand it until their horse experiences a bout - as an estimated 1 in 10 will each year according to veterinary research.

It is the name given to all forms of abdominal pain in a horse, and as such, the causes are many and varied. Actually, Colic is not a disease but a combination of signs that alert us to the presence of the condition.

Apart from climatic conditions and the breed and age of the horse, causes include:

(1) Parasitic Infestation

Either by slowing the motion of the digestive system, or damaging the blood supply.

(2) Insufficient Fibre Intake.

Fibre should make up at least 50% of a horse’s daily feed consumption. This is essential to ensure the horse’s digestive system works constantly and naturally.

(3) Excessive Grain Feeding.

Grain should constitute no more than 50% of a horse’s diet. Large amounts have been proven to result in a greater incidence of colic, as the horse’s ability to absorb starch in the small intestine is limited.

(4) Drastic Change of Feed.

In order to keep digestive difficulties to a minimum, changes of feed should be implemented slowly, in small amounts more often.

(5) Eating Sand.

Horses fed on the ground or having access to it, may ingest sand. Over time, this can build up in the intestines and eventually cause discomfort.

(6) Moldy Feed.

Moldy or rotten feed may contain toxins that cause poisoning.

(7) Lack of Drinking Water.

Horses can get dehydration colic- -not enough water in the digestive tract.

(8) Transport.

Horses stressed by transport have been found to be more susceptible to colic on long distance trips, if provided with food and water, not drinking increases the chance of dehydration and impaction.

(9) Swimming.

Horses that are regularly exercised in a swimming pool can suffer from gas colic.

(10) Worm Paste Administered.

A horse in poor condition, with a suspected parasite burden, can actually be at risk of colic by being given a worm paste.

(11) Parrot Mouth, or other serious teeth problem.

Parrot Mouth is the term used for a horse with a genetic defect that prevents the front incisors from matching. This can cause difficulty grazing and chewing. In turn, large roots, sticks etc. that are ingested whole can cause impaction colic.

(12) Twisted Intestines- -the most severe and life threatening.

This is where a portion of the horse’s small or large intestine is partially or completely twisted on itself. This can result from rolling or a buildup of gas causing the distended intestine to twist.

Whatever the cause, immediate diagnosis and treatment are vital. If the signs of pain are acute and the cause of the distention is not removed, death can occur in as little as 12 hours.

Even in mild cases, consult your vet for the best course of action.