Colic in Horses
Colic in Horses: Signs, Weather Changes, and What to Do
A horse that usually comes running for dinner suddenly ignores its hay. Another paws at the ground, looks toward its belly, or repeatedly lies down and gets back up. These changes can be early signs of colic—and recognizing them promptly can make a difference.
Colic means abdominal pain and can have several causes, including gas, impacted feed, inflammation, or a displaced or twisted intestine. Call your veterinarian as soon as you suspect colic, even if the symptoms seem mild. Serious cases can begin with subtle signs. University of Florida veterinary guidance
Recognizing the signs
Knowing your horse’s everyday habits helps you notice when something is wrong. Common signs of colic include:
Reduced appetite or refusing feed.
Pawing, restlessness, or repeatedly looking at the flank.
Kicking or biting toward the belly.
Lying down more than usual, repeatedly getting up and down, or rolling.
Stretching out as though trying to urinate.
Sweating without exercise.
Passing less manure than usual.
A bloated abdomen or an unusually quiet, withdrawn attitude.
A horse does not need to show every symptom to have colic. Severe pain, violent rolling, or worsening discomfort requires immediate veterinary attention. American College of Veterinary Surgeons
How weather changes can affect colic risk
Weather changes deserve extra attention because they can alter a horse’s drinking, feeding, and activity patterns.
During a cold snap, horses may drink less, particularly when water is very cold or frozen. Inadequate water intake can contribute to impaction, where feed material becomes difficult to move through the intestine. Check water sources frequently and offer comfortably warm water during cold weather to encourage drinking. University of Minnesota Extension
Hot weather brings different challenges. Sweating increases fluid losses, and prolonged heat can contribute to dehydration and colic. Reliable access to fresh water, shade, and appropriate cooling becomes especially important. University of Minnesota’s hot-weather guidance
Seasonal feeding changes also matter. Moving from pasture to hay, introducing a new hay supply, or allowing sudden access to spring grass can disrupt digestion. Introduce forage changes gradually so the microbes in the horse’s hindgut have time to adjust. Fall equine care, Spring horse tips
What to do while waiting for the veterinarian
Remove feed, including hay and grain. Leave fresh water available unless your veterinarian directs otherwise.
Share your observations. Note when symptoms began, the last meal and manure passed, and any recent changes in feed or routine. Take vital signs only if you know how and can do so safely.
Use medication only under veterinary direction. Ask before giving Banamine, bute, or another medication, and report anything already administered.
Protect yourself. Stay clear of a horse that is thrashing or rolling violently.
Avoid home remedies. Never force mineral oil or other liquids into the mouth, attempt stomach tubing, or give an enema. University of Florida’s colic first-aid guidance
Gentle walking may help if the horse is comfortable and safe to handle, but it is not a cure. Stop if walking increases distress, and never walk the horse—or yourself—to exhaustion. University of Minnesota Extension
How colic is treated
Treatment depends on the cause. A veterinarian may use pain relief, fluids, and a stomach tube to relieve accumulated fluid or deliver appropriate treatment. Many cases respond to medical care, while some require surgery. Continued or returning pain calls for prompt reassessment. Resume feeding according to your veterinarian’s instructions. American College of Veterinary Surgeons
Everyday habits that help
Consistent feeding, gradual diet changes, dependable water access, and regular turnout can help reduce risk. During changing weather, pay closer attention to drinking, appetite, and manure. No routine can prevent every case, so knowing your horse’s normal behavior and acting promptly remain essential. University of Minnesota Extension