There are many different causes of horse colic. This dangerous condition affects many horses every year and is in fact the leading cause of death for domestic equines. The key factor is being able to spot the symptoms quickly and knowing that prompt veterinary attention is crucial.
Most cases can be resolved quite easily with the help of a local veterinarian. They will give the animal a shot of tranquilizer and also some muscle relaxant. This can be the first step in resolving a blockage or helping horses that are suffering from severe gas build up in the digestive tract. This can be caused by feeding poor quality food or hay that has started to ferment.
Most horses will tuck into their food with gusto, or constantly nibble at grass. If the horses are out in the paddock and one is not eating, pacing constantly and kicking at his stomach, it is time to call the veterinarian. An immediate response to the problem is crucial. Even a mild case of gas build up should be checked out by an experienced veterinarian. Most of the horses that die could have been saved if they had received medical help right away.
Some animals get sick because of mineral deposits in the digestive tract. They can also have a blockage caused by the ingestion of a foreign material. These are among the most severe cases and may require surgery. The soon the horse receive specialized help the better and time really is of the essence.
Refusing to eat is the number one sign of a problem. Horses typically have great appetites and will look forward to every feed. When they are turned out on the pasture they graze almost continuously. They may take breaks to rest and relax, but these breaks do not last long. A horse who is observed to be standing apart from the group and rolling frequently may well be in trouble.
Sand impaction is also quite common. Animals that graze on sandy soil ingest a lot of sand which can eventually build up in the digestive system. Even on other types of grazing this problem can occur if the pasture is over grazed and the animals are constantly nibbling close to the ground.
Sand impaction is another common issue affecting equines. When grazing in sandy areas they automatically ingest large quantities of sand that then collects in an area known as the pelvic flexure. In some cases this may cause diarrhea, but in most cases the sand or soil will eventually cause a blockage. These can be very serious and may even require surgery.
The most important factor when dealing with a horse colic is prompt attention. The animal will not usually get better on its own. Getting an experienced veterinarian out fast is always the best idea. They can treat the animal and in most cases there will be a full and fast recovery. Older animals may experience more severe complications and these must be monitored closely.
Most cases can be resolved quite easily with the help of a local veterinarian. They will give the animal a shot of tranquilizer and also some muscle relaxant. This can be the first step in resolving a blockage or helping horses that are suffering from severe gas build up in the digestive tract. This can be caused by feeding poor quality food or hay that has started to ferment.
Most horses will tuck into their food with gusto, or constantly nibble at grass. If the horses are out in the paddock and one is not eating, pacing constantly and kicking at his stomach, it is time to call the veterinarian. An immediate response to the problem is crucial. Even a mild case of gas build up should be checked out by an experienced veterinarian. Most of the horses that die could have been saved if they had received medical help right away.
Some animals get sick because of mineral deposits in the digestive tract. They can also have a blockage caused by the ingestion of a foreign material. These are among the most severe cases and may require surgery. The soon the horse receive specialized help the better and time really is of the essence.
Refusing to eat is the number one sign of a problem. Horses typically have great appetites and will look forward to every feed. When they are turned out on the pasture they graze almost continuously. They may take breaks to rest and relax, but these breaks do not last long. A horse who is observed to be standing apart from the group and rolling frequently may well be in trouble.
Sand impaction is also quite common. Animals that graze on sandy soil ingest a lot of sand which can eventually build up in the digestive system. Even on other types of grazing this problem can occur if the pasture is over grazed and the animals are constantly nibbling close to the ground.
Sand impaction is another common issue affecting equines. When grazing in sandy areas they automatically ingest large quantities of sand that then collects in an area known as the pelvic flexure. In some cases this may cause diarrhea, but in most cases the sand or soil will eventually cause a blockage. These can be very serious and may even require surgery.
The most important factor when dealing with a horse colic is prompt attention. The animal will not usually get better on its own. Getting an experienced veterinarian out fast is always the best idea. They can treat the animal and in most cases there will be a full and fast recovery. Older animals may experience more severe complications and these must be monitored closely.
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