Sex and breed have no relation to whether a horse can get colic - any horse can come down with it. However, horses confined to stalls most of the day, horses fed grain before hay, and horses in vigorous training are more prone to the condition.
Colic can arise out of torsion (twisting) of the bowel, or displacement -- when the intestines move out of their normal position in the stomach.
Colic can be impaction itself, such as constipation. Or it can be stomach bloating caused by gas and overeating. Gas occurs from rich food expanding in the stomach or eating too rapidly.
All forms of colic require immediate medical attention as they can be life-threatening. Do not try to determine the cause of the colic yourself once it has begun. Remove food and water and phone the vet.
In the meantime, prevent the horse from rolling. Hay bales can be placed on both sides to keep him still.
If hes standing, try to walk him slowly while waiting for the doctor. However, if he is resting quietly, leave him be. It is more important that you try to keep his stress level down than anything.
Signs of a Colicky Horse
Kicking at stomach
Rolling on the ground
Stretching abnormally, as if to urinate but not urinating
Not passing feces
Repeated lying down and getting up
Biting at the stomach or turning head repeatedly toward the stomach
Rapid breathing, sweating, and pawing at the ground
Frequent curling of upper lip (called the flehmen response)
Stops eating and drinking
| A-Z of Horse Diseases & Health Problems  | Colic in the Horse |
