Types of Horse Colic

The number one cause of death in horses is colic. What is colic? Colic relates to everything that has to do with abdominal or gastrointestinal pains. What causes colic? There is no defined answer to this, but it has been surmised to be ranging from indigestion to wind sucking.

Horse owners have to be vigilant in looking out for the health of their horse. Although horses are generally sturdy and not at all that prone to a lot of diseases, the moment a horse gets colic, there is a high probability that the horse may die. Colic is not really a disease but more of a symptom or a signal that signifies a more or less serious condition that could ultimately damage your horse's health. What are the types of colic? Let us enumerate and discuss the most common ones.

1) In one way or another, a horse is bound to experience having a tummy full of gas. This makes the intestines expand, and causes only minimal discomfort to the horse.

2) Horses also get parasites, and parasites may cause the intestine to spasm in an unnaturally fast and harsh fashion. Medical help may be sought, and this is usually easily resolved.

3) Impaction is the type of colic wherein a fractional or complete blockage in the intestine happens. Just as long as adequate medical assistance is administered, it does not present much of a problem.

4) Enteritis occurs when either the small or large intestine is inflamed due to infection. Medical intervention should definitely immediately be sought, as this is a serious condition.

5) Unlike us humans, horses cannot regurgitate excess food. Instead, their stomach balloons until it ruptures. Once it does, the horse dies.

6) Horses are susceptible to displacement and torsion of the intestines. With the former, displacement occurs when the intestine is in an abnormal position. The latter happens when the intestine is twisted. Both are fatal unless immediately operated upon.

The types are enumerated in mildest to most severe order. However, it is advisable that all types be regarded as deadly, since all types actually exhibit more or less similar symptoms. When you see your horse biting his stomach, pawing the ground, trying to kick his stomach, or rolling on the ground, these are definite signs of colic. For a more detailed list on the symptoms regarding colic, ask your veterinarian. Colic should be treated as soon as possible, as this can prove to be fatal.

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