COLIC

The word "COLIC" is frightening to every horse owner and it should be!  Colic can mean the possibility of a horse dying.  One thing that some do not realize is that Colic is a symptom, not a sickness.  It is a general term meaning a "belly-ache".  There are also two basic types of Colic and the causes can stem from  things such as internal parasites, dry feed,  stress,  spoiled food,  and  impactions.  Miniatures seem to be somewhat more susceptible to colic than their larger equine counterparts and that's because of  the smaller size of their intestines.  Colic is one of the leading causes of death in horses and, although there is a surgical remedy for colic, it is not always successful and it is extremely expensive.

Before going any further, when a horse is showing that they are colicking, you should call your veterinarian.  That is the MOST important first step.  The other steps regarding this subject involve recognizing the colic and having the necessary supplies your vet will recommend on hand.

There are two common types of colic.  One is called a "Gas Colic". The other is referred to as an Impaction.  Your vet, upon examination, can usually tell the difference.  We highly advise horse owners to talk to their veterinarian BEFORE a colic ever occurs about this subject and go over what they recommend.

Most people will know when their horse doesn't feel well.  The horse will not be interested in eating their feed.  It may also lay down and not jump back to its feet when spoken to.  And finally, it may roll over, and stay down......This is the time to jump in, pull your horse away from the herd, and call your vet IMMEDIATELY.

The basic supplies you should ask your vet about keeping on hand include:

• A large jug of Mineral Oil
• A 60 cc. syringe (or a gravy baster) for administering the mineral oil, orally.
• A tube of Banamine or Liquid Banamine (available only from the vet)
• a stethoscope to listen for "gut sounds"
• a thermometer