The word “colic” by definition simply means abdominal
pain. Equine colic tends to begin with
mild pain and faint symptoms. The American Quarter Horse Journal explains
that, “approximately 10 percent of all horses suffer at least one bout of colic
during their lifetimes. And a little more than 6 percent of those die, nearly twice as many horses that are
affected by other diseases or injuries.
Remember that all colic are emergencies and a veterinarian should be
contacted as soon as possible.” Serious intestinal issues such as blockages and
ruptures tend to be fatal without a successful surgery to correct the problem.
Preventing colic should be your first line of defense. SeaBuck Complete can be an effective aid in
this area as it keeps stomach acid levels low and helps to naturally maintain a
healthy gastrointestinal tract. An
easily preventable yet common problem associated with colic is not enough
water. As we are currently in our winter
season, frozen or ice covered water can lower your horse’s liquid intake which can
play a major role in colic issues. You
should constantly be making sure your horse has fresh thawed water available to
drink.
Research shows that horses confined in stalls have a
significantly higher chance of developing colic problems. Allow your horse to
roam, and if possible allow them social interaction with other equine.
We know there are times when you try your best to keep your
horse healthy and in top condition, but every now and then that wonderful
factor called “life” steps in and takes you on a different route. If this happens, your horse is counting on
you to take the necessary steps to help them get back to their natural healthy
state.
Although we've made great progress in understanding the
causes and treatments of colic it continues to be one of the top medical equine
emergencies. The picture below is of a horse suffering from colic. If your
horse is constantly retreating into the position seen below, call your vet
for an evaluation and take that as a cautionary sign to stay observant and
vigilant.
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| Photo Credit: EquiSearch |
