Colic is not a disease — it is a symptom of abdominal pain.
It ranges from mild gas discomfort to life-threatening intestinal displacement. Early recognition is the single most important factor influencing outcome.
Many severe cases begin with subtle signs that are easy to miss.
This guide explains how to identify early warning signs, what they mean, and when immediate veterinary intervention is required.
Why Early Detection Matters
- Colic can escalate rapidly.
- The earlier intervention occurs:
- The higher the survival rate
- The lower the complication risk
- The lower the cost
- The better the welfare outcome
- Delays often occur because early signs are mistaken for “moodiness” or minor discomfort.
- Observation saves lives.
Understanding Normal First
Before recognising abnormal, you must know your horse’s baseline.
Know your horse’s:
- Normal appetite
- Drinking habits
- Dropping frequency
- Typical behaviour
- Resting posture
- Usual gut sounds
- Colic often begins with deviation from normal routine.
Subtle Early Warning Signs
Early colic signs are frequently quiet and easily overlooked.
1. Reduced Appetite
A horse that:
- Leaves hard feed
- Picks at hay
- Slows eating pace
- May be experiencing early discomfort.
Loss of appetite is one of the earliest red flags.
2. Standing Quietly, Withdrawn
Some horses with mild abdominal pain:
- Stand apart
- Lower head
- Appear dull
- Show reduced interest in surroundings
Not all colic presents dramatically.
Quiet colic can be dangerous.
3. Repeated Lying Down and Getting Up
A horse that:
- Lies down
- Gets up quickly
- Shifts position repeatedly
May be trying to relieve abdominal pressure.
Frequent repositioning is significant.
4. Looking at Flank
Repeatedly turning head toward abdomen suggests internal discomfort.
Even occasional flank watching should be noted.
5. Pawing or Mild Restlessness
Early stages may include:
- Light pawing
- Weight shifting
- Tail swishing
- Mild agitation
Escalation often follows.
6. Changes in Droppings
Monitor:
- Reduced quantity
- Dry or very small droppings
- Loose manure
- Absence of droppings
Gut motility changes often precede visible pain.
7. Mild Sweating
Unexplained sweating — particularly in cool weather — may indicate pain.
Check for:
- Patchy sweat
- Damp flanks
- Sweaty neck
Sweating without exertion is a warning sign.
Escalating Signs (Urgent)
If colic worsens, signs may include:
- Rolling
- Violent thrashing
- Repeated attempts to lie down
- Elevated heart rate
- Heavy sweating
- Rapid breathing
- Pale or darkened gums
At this stage, veterinary intervention is urgent.
Vital Signs to Check Immediately
Every owner should know how to check:
Normal adult ranges:
Heart rate: 28–44 bpm
Respiration: 8–16 breaths per minute
Temperature: 37.2–38.3°C
Heart rate above 50 bpm in suspected colic warrants urgent veterinary contact.
Elevated heart rate correlates strongly with severity.
Common Colic Triggers in the UK
Colic risk increases with:
- Sudden feed changes
- Reduced water intake in winter
- Poor forage quality
- High-concentrate diets
- Sand ingestion
- Worm burden
- Dental issues
- Sudden weather shifts
Winter dehydration is a frequent trigger.
What To Do If You Suspect Colic
Remove feed immediately
Call your vet
Monitor vital signs
Keep horse walking gently if safe
Prevent rolling in unsafe environments
Do not administer medication unless advised
Time matters.
Do not wait “to see if it passes” if signs persist.
When to Call the Vet Immediately
Call immediately if:
- Pain is persistent
- Horse rolls violently
- Heart rate above 50 bpm
- No droppings for extended period
- Gums pale, dark or tacky
- Severe sweating
Never hesitate to call.
It is better to call early than too late.
Prevention Strategies
Reduce colic risk by:
- Providing constant forage
- Avoiding sudden feed changes
- Ensuring clean water
- Maintaining dental care
- Regular worm management
- Gradual pasture transitions
- Monitoring hydration in winter
Prevention lowers risk — but does not eliminate it entirely.
The Core Principle
Colic often begins quietly.
Early signs include:
- Subtle behaviour change
- Appetite reduction
- Minor restlessness
- Altered droppings
Prompt action improves survival dramatically.
Know your horse’s normal.
Trust your instincts.
If something feels wrong, investigate immediately.
Knowledge Hub: https://jsm-equestrian-supplies.co.uk/knowledge-hub/
Category: https://jsm-equestrian-supplies.co.uk/category/horse-health/
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