Colic refers to abdominal pain in a horse, and it's one of the most common reasons horses see an emergency vet visit. It's not one specific disease but an umbrella term covering a wide range of gastrointestinal issues, from mild gas buildup to life-threatening blockages.
Types of Colic
Gas colic, impaction colic, spasmodic colic, and displacement or twisted gut are among the main categories, ranging from relatively mild and self-resolving to surgical emergencies.
Common Causes
Sudden feed changes, dehydration, parasites, sand ingestion, dental problems that limit chewing, and reduced turnout or movement are all common contributing factors.
Colic is one of the leading causes of death in domestic horses, which is why owners are trained to recognize even mild symptoms quickly.
Risk Factors
Horses with a prior colic history, those on limited turnout, those recently dewormed, or those experiencing stress from travel or changes in routine are statistically at higher risk.
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