The very mention of the word strikes fear in most horse owners.
In this issue we will try to explain what colic is, how it happens,
what the main types are and if possible how to prevent the condition.
Colic an explanation
The word colic simply means pain associated with the abdomen.
Usually this pain originates from the intestines but other causes
of abdominal pain that may be confused with intestinal colic
are foaling, tying up, and kidney/bladder problems.
How serious is colic?
Colic is quite a serious condition. Horses can become quite
painful and agitated relatively quickly depending on the colic
type. While most cases can be treated medically, approximately
five per cent of cases may require surgical correction. If your
horse is showing signs of very painful colic or showing signs
of mild colic that is continuing or getting worse then a decision
to call the vet should be made.
What are the signs?
The signs depend on the colic type and the severity of the changes
occurring.
Signs of mild colic include the following signs of discomfort.
Pawing the ground with front foot. Repeatedly turning the head
to look at the abdomen. Restlessness, getting up and down frequently.
If the colic is more severe the signs are more dramatic. It
will be obvious that the horse is in considerable pain. Signs
that may be present are, Sweating, Rolling, Lying down, reluctance
to stand up, Rapid respiratory rate, Elevated heart rate.
What are the main
types of colic?
Spasmodic colic is the most common type of colic. In this colic
the intestines become over active for some reason and it may
even be possible to hear the increased rumbling from the abdomen.
This type of colic may be caused by changes to the diet, inadequate
deworming, teeth problems or changes in exercise patterns. While
this colic can be very dramatic it usually responds quickly
to medication. The next most common cause of colic is impactions
of the large intestine. This is where the intestine gets blocked
up with food material. Contributing factors for this to happen
are sudden changes to the horses diet, reduction in exercise,
maybe where a previously active horse has to be confined to
the stable for box rest. Poor dental care, irregular feeding
or where the horse suddenly starts to eat its bedding are other
important factors. To avoid impactions always make sure feeding
changes are made gradually and ensure horse has always access
to plenty of fresh water. Colic emanating from the stomach is
most commonly associated with ulcers or distention. Stomach
distention can be very painful and may occur after a rapid and
excessive feed of grass or concentrates. Ulcers are more common
a problem of young stock especially foals. These can be quite
painful and should always be considered as a cause of colic
in young foals especially when they are suffering from other
concurrent diseases such as scour for example. Displacement
of the intestines within the abdomen is quite rare but this
can occur when a part of the intestine becomes trapped in the
wrong part of the abdomen. Mares after foaling can be at an
increased risk of getting this type of colic. Frequently these
colics require surgical correction. By far the most painful
and dramatic of the colic types is when a part of the gut gets
twisted. This is very serious and usually requires surgical
correction relatively quickly to save them.
Veterinary assessment
of the colic patient.
