06/08/2026
June is colic Awareness Month!
đ´ Colic Basics: What Every Horse Owner Should Know
Colic isnât a diagnosisâitâs a symptom of abdominal pain in your horse. Because causes can range from mild to severe, itâs important to recognize the signs early and take action.
đ Common Signs of Colic:
⢠Looking at their flank
⢠Biting or kicking at their belly
⢠Lying down or rolling
⢠Little or no manure
⢠Not eating well
⢠Increased heart rate
⢠Tacky or discolored gums
đśââď¸ What You Can Do:
Walking your horse may help relieve pain and stimulate gut movement. However, if your horse starts to roll or thrash, move them to an open area and keep yourself safeâinjury can happen quickly. Stop walking if your horse worsens or becomes exhausted.
đ When to Call the Vet:
⢠Youâre unsure how long symptoms have been going on
⢠The colic appears severe
⢠Walking isnât helping
⢠Vital signs are abnormal
âł While Waiting for the Vet:
⢠Remove feed to prevent further intake
⢠Take vital signs if you can and share them
⢠Try to keep your horse standing, while keeping yourself safe
𩺠What to Expect from a Vet Exam:
Your veterinarian will perform a physical exam, likely a re**al exam to assess the GI tract, and may pass a nasogastric (NG) tube to check the stomach and administer fluids. Additional diagnostics or referral to a hospital may be needed depending on severity.
Colic can escalate quicklyâtrust your instincts and donât hesitate to call your vet. Early intervention can make all the difference.