Colic in Horses



Colic is actually a term that encompasses different types of stomach pain among horses. Equine colic may therefore be caused by different factors. Examples of possible causes of abdominal pain are abdominal obstruction, twisted guts, gas, stomach spasms, intestinal inflammation and a ruptured stomach.

Colic may be mild or severe among horses. Regardless of the degree of pain, it is important to administer some form of equine colic relief. The vet may prescribe medication, surgery or some other form of treatment. An untreated horse may die in pain especially if the stomach ruptures.

Symptoms

The only way you can administer proper and prompt equine colic relief is if you know how to detect the condition in the first place. The symptoms may be mild at first so you would have to watch for subtle changes in horse behavior. Your horse may seem quite restless, lying down, getting up, pawing the ground and moving around in an erratic manner. He may also attempt to look at or even kick his own stomach. In short, your horse will appear very distressed and in pain. The more serious the colic condition is, the more severe the signs of distress will be.

Prevention

Not all types of horse colic conditions can be prevented 100% of the time. Taking some precautions however will reduce the chances of preventable colic and the need to bother with equine colic relief products in the first place.

For starters, you can ensure that your horse, its stable, food and water are always clean. Have the veterinarian check his teeth regularly and have an established worming program and exercise regimen as recommended by the vet.

Diet and feeding habits may also play a role in horse colic prevention. It is suggested that there should be more roughage than grain in a horse's diet. Its food should also not be served on sandy ground. Horses should not immediately be fed or given water right after rigorous physical activity. Healthy changes in feeding and routine should always be introduced gradually.

Ask your vet too if it would be a good idea to give probiotics on top of your horse's regular vitamins. Some probiotic products may help improve your horse's intestinal flora which in turn can help with digestion.

Treatment

Many horse colic cases can be treated. Effective treatment however depends on the type of colic, the promptness of action and treatment administered. Observe your horse closely if you notice mild distress. Your horse could either require immediate equine colic relief or he may be anxious over something else. Severe symptoms however should make you call the vet at the soonest possible time.

While waiting for the vet, make sure that your horse does not ingest anything and is in a safe but secure place. This is to prevent injury to both your horse and other people or animals in the place.