Equine Colic: The #1 Killer of Horses
Colic is abdominal pain in horses and the leading cause of death. Knowing the signs and acting fast saves lives.
Colic is not a disease but a symptom — abdominal pain that can arise from the gastrointestinal tract, urinary system, or reproductive organs. In horses, colic is a true emergency. The twisting of the intestine (volvulus) or displacement can cause death within hours without surgical intervention.
Key Points
- Colic is the leading cause of death in horses worldwide
- Signs include pawing, rolling, looking at the flank, and refusal to eat
- Gas colic is mild; twisted intestine (volvulus) is fatal without surgery
- Nasogastric intubation to decompress the stomach is a critical first step
- Pain severity doesn't always correlate with surgical need — some painful horses have gas
- Most colics resolve with medical management; 10-15% require surgery
Types of Colic
Spasmodic/gas colic — the most common type, caused by gas distension and intestinal spasms. Usually resolves with pain medication and walking. Impaction colic — dry, firm fecal material blocks the intestine, commonly in the pelvic flexure. Requires fluids, laxatives, and sometimes IV fluids. Displacement/volvulus — a section of intestine moves out of position or twists on its mesentery. Cuts off blood supply and is a surgical emergency. Sand colic — accumulation of sand in the colon causes irritation and blockage. Common in horses on sandy pastures. Enteritis — inflammation of the intestine, often infectious.
Recognizing Colic
Early signs are subtle — restlessness, pawing at the ground, looking at the flank, and refusal to eat or drink. As pain intensifies, horses lie down and get up repeatedly, roll violently, or thrash. Heart rate rises above normal (40-60 bpm in adults). Gums become dry and dark. Gut sounds diminish or disappear. Some horses sweat profusely. The severity of signs does not always predict the severity of the underlying problem. A horse with a twisted gut may show only mild discomfort initially.
Emergency Response
Remove all food and water. Call your veterinarian immediately — colic is always an emergency. Walk the horse gently to prevent rolling and possible injury. Do NOT administer medications unless instructed — painkillers can mask signs needed for surgical decision-making. Your veterinarian will perform a rectal exam, place a nasogastric tube to check for gastric reflux, and assess heart rate and hydration. IV fluids, pain medication, and spasmolytics (Buscopan) are first-line treatments.
When to See a Vet Immediately
- Your horse is pawing, rolling, or showing restlessness
- The horse refuses to eat or drink
- Gum color is dark or heart rate is elevated
- Gut sounds are absent
- There's severe, unrelenting abdominal pain
How RVC Can Help
This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. If your pet is showing any symptoms, please contact Royal Veterinary Center immediately at +853 6677 6611.