Few things cause more fear in a horse owner than seeing signs of colic. From subtle discomfort to severe distress, colic can escalate quickly. Acting fast before your emergency vet arrives can make all the difference. At Brazos Valley Equine Hospital (BVEH), our emergency veterinary services are available to guide you through every step; however, there are essential actions you can take immediately when colic strikes.
Whether you’re a first-time horse owner or an experienced trainer, knowing how to recognize and respond to horse colic before a colic examination is performed can help improve your horse’s chances of a quick recovery. Here’s what you should do if you suspect your horse is colicking: don’t panic, get prepared.
Know the Common Signs of Colic
Recognizing early signs of colic in horses is key to avoiding complications. Colic is a broad term for abdominal pain, which can be caused by gas buildup, impaction, intestinal strangulations/incarcerations (twists), or even parasites. Horses are stoic animals, but there are telltale signs they’re in pain:
- Repeatedly looking at or biting their sides
- Pawing at the ground or kicking at their belly
- Excessive rolling or attempting to roll
- Restlessness or frequent lying down and standing up
- Lack of interest in food or water
- Reduced or no gut sounds
- Rapid breathing or increased heart rate
- Visible sweating or agitation
Any of these behaviors can indicate colic, and no symptom is too small to ignore. When in doubt, treat any abnormal behavior as a warning sign and act immediately.
Call Your Veterinarian Right Away, Don’t Wait
What is the most critical step when you suspect colic? Contact your vet immediately. Don’t assume the signs will resolve on their own. A “wait and see” approach can cost valuable time and worsen your horse’s condition.
At BVEH, we regularly perform emergency colic exams and have seen firsthand how early intervention can save lives. Whether it’s a mild impaction or a surgical case, your vet needs to assess your horse in order to determine the best course of action. While you’re waiting for your emergency vet services team, have the following information ready:
- Duration and intensity of symptoms
- Any recent diet or management changes
- Fecal output (how much and when)
- Gut sounds or lack thereof
- Rectal temperature, heart rate, and respiratory rate (if you can safely measure them)
If you’re unsure what’s safe to do or not, your vet can guide you over the phone until they arrive. Keep your horse calm, in a safe area, and avoid excessive walking unless instructed.
Keep Anti-Inflammatory Medications on Hand
One proactive step many experienced owners take is having a vet-approved anti-inflammatory medication, such as flunixin meglumine (Banamine), available for emergency use. However, do not administer any medication without first consulting your veterinarian. Giving medication too early can mask symptoms and interfere with the colic assessment your vet will perform.
In some cases, Banamine can help manage mild colic pain or reduce inflammation associated with impaction. But it’s not a cure. It’s only a supportive measure, and giving it without direction can lead to complications or delay necessary treatment.
If your vet recommends keeping an anti-inflammatory on hand, make sure you understand:
- The correct dosage
- The proper route of administration (oral vs. intravenous)
- When is it appropriate to use
- When it is absolutely not appropriate
Most importantly, never use medications as a substitute for a proper veterinary exam. Your vet will let you know if and when it’s safe to administer something to keep your horse comfortable before they arrive.
Stay Calm, Stay Prepared
Dealing with colic in horses can be stressful, but being prepared can help reduce panic and support better outcomes. Recognize the early signs, contact your vet immediately, and follow their advice closely. Whether it’s a mild case or a severe emergency, your horse’s best chance comes from fast, informed action.
Suspect your horse is colicking? Contact Brazos Valley Equine Hospital. Our dedicated team of veterinarians is trained in advanced diagnostics and emergency colic treatment. We provide emergency vet services, so we’re here when you need us most.
