Just a friendly reminder that with the weather temperatures changing, we need to keep an eye on our horses’ behavior for signs of colic. Although colic is common, in the spring and fall we are always hearing episodes of colic than any other time of year. Anytime their routines or diet change it is important to do it very gradually, especially this time of year or wait until the weather is more consistent.
-We had a horse back in the spring die from severe colic. His diet and routine had been as consistent as it gets. Fed in evening, no signs, he ate like he always did, had poop in his stall and acted like always and turned everyone out as we always do. At feeding time the next morning we found immediately he had colic symptoms and did everything you would do for colic. The colic went on too long during the night and his intestines had twisted.
If you are able to catch colic early it will make a difference in how the outcome will be. Early signs of colic are hard dry stool, no bowel movement, no gut sounds, lying down and getting up over and over, kicking/nipping at belly or pawing, not wanting his feed. If you notice any unusual behavior it’s best to call your vet immediately!
Colic Prevention –
Always be consistent and maintain your horse’s routine and diet! If any changes need to be made, take care and do it gradually. Of course never feed him moldy hay or feed, always keep him fresh clean water at all times and maybe add some warm water in his cold water in the winter. It is important that they are drinking water! Don’t let a hot horse drink too much water after exercising without cooling him first, being infested with worms can cause colic so keep him on a de-worming program, and don’t let him ingest sand, this can lead to sand colic.
We hope this will be helpful information and good luck!!
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