Colic

by Audrey Bryant

Colicky horse in "saw" posture

 Colic is one of the leading causes of death in horses. It can be a terrifying experience for any horse owner. If you haven't had the misfortune of dealing with it, consider yourself lucky. Providing your horse with a healthy lifestyle can go a long way in preventing colic.
However, sometimes despite our best efforts, our horse may suffer a bout of it. It seems to be more prevalent in the spring when the grass gets its urge to come out of its winter slumber and the temperatures fluctuate erratically. 

Being prepared could mean the difference between life and death for your horse and a ton of heartache for you. You can begin by knowing the signs of colic. Here are some common signs to be aware of:

• Overall restlessness
• Curling upper lip
• Looking at abdomen
• Kicking at belly
• Biting at flanks
• Abdominal distention
• Refusing to eat
• Depression
• Playing in water with lips
• Assuming a "saw horse" posture
• Rolling, pawing, getting up & down frequently
• Lack of defecation or small volumes of firm, mucous covered feces

Each horse is different and may display different symptoms than the ones listed above. Early detection is vital in successfully beating colic.

Colic Kit

When you suspect your horse is suffering from colic you don't need to feel helpless; there are things that you can do until the veterinarian arrives or in cases when a veterinarian isn't available. Every horse owner should have a colic kit or equivalent and be well versed in how to use it. Performing periodic "colic drills" with friends is a fun, easy way to be sure you're prepared.

Sound Horse Solutions offers a very affordable colic kit. Its contents are natural and will not interfere with anything the vet may administer. Included in the kit are various homeopathic remedies, herbal teas, and a detailed guide. You may contact Audrey at soundhorsesolutions@olypen.com or visit her website at soundhorsesolutions.net. 




Audrey Bryant, founder of Sound Horse Solutions, is a hoof care professional in Washington State and has dedicated her professional life to educating horse owners so they may feel confident in taking a more integrated, balanced approach to their horses' health care.

(Originally posted June 2013)