by Megan Worley

Created on: March 01, 2009   Last Updated: June 25, 2009

Colic: Symptoms and Treatment

If you have a horse, or are around them for more than a few years you are almost guaranteed to come across several cases of colic. Colic can result from so many situations it is nearly impossible to prevent and something you can't predict.

What is Colic?

Colic is not an actual disease. What colic refers to is a problem within a horse's digestive system. In human terms, a stomach ache. Just like in humans there are many types of stomach aches and results including gas, diarrhea and constipation. Although gas doesn't seem like an emergency any type of colic is cause for concern. Horse's trying to relieve the pain may roll violently and can cause their intestines to twist, which may necessitate surgery.

Signs of Colic

The symptoms of colic are not usually obvious until the horse is in a lot of pain. The best way to watch for colic is to know your horses usually behavior and keep on an eye on them. Know how much and how quickly your horse usually ears and how much he goes to the bathroom in a given amount of time is especially important. Knowing your horse's usual energy level is also important. If the horse appears listless or more tired than usual it can be a warning sign that something is wrong. Other general warning signs include:

1. Not passing any manure

2. Biting at their stomach or sides

3. Restless behavior such as pacing or trotting constantly for no apparent reason

4. Scratching at the belly with their hind legs

5. Lying down for a long time and refusing to get up

6. Frequent rolling

7. Sweating for no obvious reason

Treatment for Colic

Unless you know the horse very well and have dealt with colic in that specific horse before you then you will need to inform the vet immediately. The sooner the vet gets there the better the outcome is likely to be. If the colic is severe, likely from a twisted intestine, the horse will likely need surgery.

Until the vet arrives try walking the horse to keep it from rolling. If the colic is caused by a blockage in the intestines rolling can cause a twist and make the problem much worse. The vet will likely administer Banamine, a pain relieving drug, which can relieve colic by caused the muscles to relax and allowing the manure, or gas, to pass through. Pain medication should be administered by a vet or after speaking with a vet.

Always keep an eye on your horse and its behavior. Catching colic early is the key to keeping the case from becoming severe.

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