Vet's Forum
"Understanding and Controlling Colic"
Owners, Beware. The #1 killer of horses is colic!
But colic is not a disease. Rather it is a combination of signs that alert us to abnormal pain in the horse. Colic can range from mild to sever, but it should never be ignored. That's because many of the conditions that cause colic can become life-threatening in a relatively short period of time. Only by quickly and accurately recognizing colic, and seeking qualified veterinary help, can the chance for recovery be maximized.
Recognizing
Colic
A major problem for you as a horse owner is
identifying the signs of colic. That's because signs can vary greatly
between individuals and may also depend on the severity of the pain.
However, among the more common signs are:
- Turning the head toward the flank, pawing,
kicking or biting at the abdomen
- Stretching out as if to urinate without doing so
- Rolling, especially violent rolling
-
Absence of, or reduced digestive sounds
-
Sweating, rapid respiration and/or flared nostrils
-
Elevated pulse rate (greater than 52 beats per minute)
-
Lip curling (Flehmen response) or yawning
Take
Immediate Action
Time is perhaps the most critical factor if colic is to be successfully
treated. While a number of cases resolve without medical intervention, a
significant percentage do require prompt medical care, including emergency
surgery. If you suspect your horse is suffering from colic, the following
action plan is suggested:
Remove
all food and water.
Notify your veterinarian
immediately
Be prepared to provide the following information:
Pulse, respiration rate and rectal
temperature
Color of mucous membranes and
capillary refill time (finger pressure response to gums)
Behavioral signs, such as pawing,
kicking, rolling, etc.
Any recent changes in management,
feeding or exercise
Medical history, including
deworming, past colics, breeding history if pertinent
Insurance status and value of horse
(Notify insurance carrier)
Keep horse as calm and comfortable
as possible. Allow the animal to lie down if it appears
to be resting and is not at risk of injury but do not
let him roll.
If the horse is rolling or behaving
violently, attempt to walk the horse slowly.
Do not attempt to administer drugs
unless specifically directed to do so by your equine
practitioner. Drugs may camouflage problems
and interfere with an accurate diagnosis.
Follow your veterinarian's advice
exactly and await his or her arrival.
The above information was provided courtesy of:
Dr. Don Ryker & Dr. Ken Gertsen of
Don Ryker DVM & Associates
Ortonville, Michigan
(248) 627-2815
www.drryker.com