| Colic Colic is the horse equivalent of a human stomach ache. However, although this generalization gives you a good idea of what colic is, it isn't totally accurate. Colic is often much more serious than the human stomach ache and can be fatal. Causes: ~ The horses teeth have been neglected, and the horse cannot chew its food properly. ~ The horse is fed too much low-quality food that is hard to digest. ~ The horse is fed too much rich food, or too much of any food. ~ Stress or exhaustion. ~ Red worm larvae. * Sadly, many of the problems that cause colic can be prevented. If you are considering buying a horse or leasing one, talk to a veterinarian to learn more about colic. Symptoms: ~ Restlessness ~ Pawing the ground ~ Looking at its flanks ~ Standing with all four legs extended ~ Sweating ~ Looking depressed ~ Lying down ~ Rolling ~ Kicking ~ The horse has not pooped or its feces look unusual ~ Little or no interest in food or water Treatment: CALL THE VET IMMEDIATELY IF YOUR HORSE IS EXHIBITING MORE THAN ONE OF THESE SYMPTOMS. The vet will examine your horse and determine if he needs medicine or surgery. If you contact the vet early enough, even severe types of colic, such as a twisted intestine, can be treated successfully. Bibliography: Hawcroft, Tim. The Complete Book of Horse Care. Sydney: Lansdowne Press, 1983. |
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