Colic in Horses: What It Is, What to Watch For, and When to Call the Vet

Colic is one of the most common—and most serious—emergencies we see in horses. The term “colic” doesn’t describe a single disease; it simply means abdominal pain and can vary widely in cause and severity. Because horses can’t tell us what’s wrong, the people who know them best—their owners—are often the first to notice subtle changes. Recognizing those early signs and acting quickly can make all the difference. Since colic can present in many different ways, it’s always better to ask early. If you’re concerned your horse may be showing signs of colic, please contact us to schedule an evaluation or speak with a member of our veterinary team. Let’s take a closer look at what colic can look like in horses—and go through the most frequently asked questions owners have.

What Causes Colic?

Colic can stem from many different issues, including:

• Gas buildup
• Impaction (blocked intestines)
• Twisted intestine (torsion)
• Sand accumulation
• Intestinal inflammation or infection
• Diet changes or poor-quality forage
• Parasites
• Stress or prolonged stall time

Some causes are mild and resolve quickly, while others can require emergency surgery.

Early Signs of Colic

Colic doesn’t always look dramatic. Early signs can be subtle, but recognizing them early is critical. Watch for:

• Pawing or pacing
• Repeated rolling
• Looking at the flank
• Kicking at the belly
• Sweating
• Loss of appetite
• Lack of manure or small amounts of hard manure
• Lethargy or depression

If your horse shows any of these signs, don’t wait to see if it improves—call your veterinarian right away.

What You Should Do Immediately

If you suspect colic, follow these steps:

1. Call your veterinarian

Even if you think it might be mild, it’s always better to call early. The sooner we can evaluate, the better the outcome.

2. Keep your horse calm

Avoid excessive walking. Too much movement can make certain types of colic worse.

3. Monitor vital signs

If you’re able, check:

• Temperature
• Heart rate
• Respiratory rate
• Gum color

4. Don’t give pain meds unless directed

Some medications can mask important signs and delay diagnosis.

When Colic Is an Emergency

Call your vet immediately if any of the following occur:

• Persistent or repeated rolling
• No improvement after 15-20 minutes or are worsening
• Severe pain
• Abnormal or no manure
• Elevated heart rate or temperature
• Distended belly

These signs can indicate a serious intestinal problem that may require surgery.

How We Diagnose Colic

When our team arrives, we typically perform:

• A physical exam
• Heart and gut sound assessment
• Nasogastric tube evaluation
• Abdominal ultrasound or fluid testing (if needed)

These diagnostics help us determine the cause and whether treatment will be medical or surgical.

How to Reduce Colic Risk

While colic can’t be completely prevented, the following practices can help reduce risk:

• Consistent feeding schedule
• High-quality forage
• Slow diet changes
• Regular deworming
• Adequate water access
• Turnout and exercise
• Routine dental care

Frequently Asked Questions About Colic in Horses

What is colic in horses?

Colic is a general term for abdominal pain in a horse. It can be caused by gas, impaction, displacement, parasites, or other digestive issues. Some cases are mild, while others can be life-threatening.

What are the most common colic symptoms?

Common horse colic symptoms include:

• Pawing or pacing
• Rolling or trying to roll
• Looking at the flank
• Kicking at the belly
• Sweating
• Loss of appetite
• No manure or small amounts of hard manure
• Lethargy or depression

When should I call an equine veterinarian for colic?

Call your veterinarian immediately if your horse shows any colic symptoms. If symptoms last longer than 15–20 minutes or are worsening, call right away.

Can walking a horse help with colic?

Walking may help mild colic, but it can worsen certain types, especially torsion or displacement. Always follow your vet’s guidance.

What causes sand colic?

Sand colic happens when a horse ingests sand or dirt, which accumulates in the intestines and causes blockage or irritation. It is more common in horses that graze on sandy pastures or are fed on the ground.

Can colic be prevented?

Colic cannot be completely prevented, but risk can be reduced with:

• Consistent feeding schedule
• High-quality forage
• Regular water access
• Routine deworming
• Turnout and exercise
• Regular dental care

What should I do if my horse is colicking?

If your horse is showing colic symptoms:

• Call your veterinarian
• Keep the horse calm
• Monitor vital signs
• Avoid giving pain medications unless directed
• Do not feed or give large amounts of water until the vet arrives

Is colic an emergency?

Colic is always a potential emergency. If the pain is severe, persistent, or worsening, it may require emergency treatment or surgery.

What is impaction colic?

Impaction colic occurs when feed material becomes stuck in the intestines, often due to dehydration, poor-quality forage, or sudden diet changes. It can cause pain and decreased manure production.

What does colic treatment look like?

Treatment depends on the cause, but may include:

• Pain management
• IV fluids
• Electrolytes
• Anti-gas medications
• Mineral oil or laxatives (only under veterinary direction)
• Surgery if needed

Call your vet immediately if:

• The horse is rolling repeatedly
• Pain is severe or worsening
• No manure for several hours
• Elevated heart rate or temperature
• Distended abdomen
• Signs of shock or weakness

How long does colic last?

Some mild colic cases resolve within an hour with minimal treatment. Others may last longer and require intensive veterinary care. If symptoms persist beyond 20–30 minutes, contact your vet.

Are certain horses more prone to colic?

Yes. Risk factors include:

• Limited turnout
• High-grain diets
• Poor dental health
• History of colic
• Sudden diet changes
• Stress or frequent stall time

Can I give my horse banamine or other pain meds at home?

Only give medications if your veterinarian has instructed you to do so. Pain meds can mask symptoms and delay proper diagnosis.

What is the difference between mild and severe colic?

Mild colic may include brief discomfort, mild pawing, or decreased appetite. Severe colic includes repeated rolling, persistent pain, high heart rate, or abdominal distention. Severe cases often require emergency veterinary care.

We’re Here When You Need Us

Colic can become serious quickly. If your horse is acting unusual or you’re unsure, it’s always better to call sooner rather than later—early intervention saves lives.

Need an Equine Veterinarian for Colic Treatment?

If your horse shows signs of colic, don’t wait—contact Oakhurst Equine Veterinary Services right away. We offer emergency colic evaluation, diagnostics, and treatment.

📞 Call us at: 503-554-0227