Facts about Colic in horses
Colic is a common aliment in horses. Colic is the word used to describe abdominal pain. There are many causes that can be the reason for colic, from simple indigestion to a twisted gut. Animal Friends Equine Insurance have identified a few ways to help our customers take precautions to prevent horses from developing colic. You can use simple management techniques to reduce the risks of your horse becoming colicky.
Some of the signs that a horse has colic are, it is restless and pawing at the ground. If it is sweating and has an increased breathing rate, an elevated pulse or kicking to the stomach these are all signs of colic. Other signs include, the horse starts stretching as if to urinate or starts rolling or attempting to roll.
Horses today eat a very different diet than that of their ancestors. Even though they eat differently they still have the digestive system of their ancestors which hasn't evolved. This is why horses today are susceptible to digestive upset and have colic. The problem is that horses cannot vomit to get rid of indigestible foods.
A horse in a natural setting will be on the move and be grazing along the way. This is called trickle feeding, which means a horse eats large quantities of low energy food throughout the day and usually spends up to 16 hours a day feeding. Today horses are often feed twice a day and rationed on hay and stabled for up to 8 hours. This is very different than what a horse's digestive system is used to so that is why they are prone to colic.
There are several things you can do to prevent colic. One important thing is to always have a constant supply of fresh water. Feed your horse small and frequently; their diet should be of high quality feed and have a high fibre content. Allow the horse to be turned out in a paddock as much as possible. It is best if you have a regular daily routine and to make changes in their diet slowly over a period of time.
Just remember to monitor your horse and look for any signs of discomfort because early detection of colic will improve the chances of them remaining healthy and strong for a lifetime. As a specialist equine insurance company AFI takes your horse's health seriously.
Do you have any advice for our readers on prevention or treatment of colic in horses? Animal Friends Insurance would love to hear what you have to say. Please post your comments below if you would like to share your opinions with other members of AFI's Horse Community. Thank you and enjoy the blogs!
