What to Do?
If your horse is displaying signs of colic, contact your vet immediately. Early intervention can prevent colic situations from getting worse or may even save your horse’s life. Working with your vet clinic will help you determine if your horse can be treated medically or if he needs surgery. Monitor your horse in a safe area and keep him calm. Do not allow him to roll, which can lead to gut twists and displacement. If your horse is not in severe pain or exhausted, you can walk him or stand with him. Do not allow him to eat or drink, but consult with your veterinarian if you can allow him to drink water to stay hydrated. Your vet may ask you to monitor your horse’s vital signs, may ask if he has manure in his stall (no recent feces could indicate a problem), and will advise whether you should administer medications or not. Pain relieving medication can help make your horse more comfortable, but it can also interfere with your vet’s ability to assess and monitor your horse’s pain. Follow your vet’s directions on what you should do until they arrive or until you can get your horse to the clinic. In addition, are you prepared to trailer your horse to the
COURTESY TRIPLE CROWN NUTRITION
Refusing to eat, Acting “off” or sluggish, Sweating excessively, Getting up and down (restlessness) and excessive rolling, or Changes to normal vital signs, such as an increased respiratory rate or heart rate.
Provide plenty of fresh water to your horse every day to reduce the risk of colic and for his overall health.
clinic, if need be? It’s a good idea to start making plans at the beginning of a colic situation in case it is needed. Oftentimes, quick access to the right medical care can make the difference, so always have a plan you can activate in emergencies.
Preventing Colic
1. Ensure all horses have access to water. In larger herds, it is essential to have multiple water sources, especially if there are timid horses in your herd. Clean out tanks
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