Equine Sand Colic – Treatment And Prevention
Sand colic is a form of equine discomfort characterized by abdominal pain and abnormal intestinal functioning. Horses in Arizona, Florida or other dusty habitats are especially at risk for developing this malady. As they graze, horses will naturally pick up some sand, but mineral-deficient foals may even eat the sand intentionally. The problem occurs when the fine grain and silt either causes irritation from impurities or builds up in the stomach, intestines and colon. Sometimes horses will accumulate fifty pounds of sand in their colons!
The danger is that large sand deposits can cause irritation in the system and inflammation of the colon or intestinal tract. Over time, imagine the horse’s colon as a knapsack of sand, pulling downward but corralled around the other organs, eventually twists or pivots under the weight. In addition to impaired mobility and colic pain, the horse will suffer a reduced absorption of water and nutrients through the blocked intestinal walls.
As a preventative measure, you can check a horse’s stool sample for sand by dissolving it in water. If there is more than half a teaspoon, then you should consider changing how you care for your horse – providing more rigorous exercise, more water and adding two cups of psyillium to the horse’s diet. Psyllium is a laxative that absorbs water and forms a gel within the intestinal tract to trap sand and move it out of the body. In extreme cases, vets can perform radiographs to diagnose sand colic and may even advise exploratory abdominal surgery to remove tremendous build up.
The best way to prevent sand colic is to ensure that your horse is not eating off the sandy or dusty ground. Provide a feed bag, trough or feeding mat, if possible. Give the horse plenty of water, daily rigorous exercise and a scoop of psyllium with its feed. If your horse has been treated for symptoms of colic before, then monitor manure and water intake. If the horse doesn’t drink enough, then try flavoring the water with 2 tablespoons of salt, 1/8 cup of molasses, 1 can of frozen apple juice concentrate, carrot juice or Gatorade. Some horses respond well to a bran mash composed of 2 cups of wheat bran, 1 gallon of warm water, garnished with apple pieces, molasses, salt or applesauce for added flavor. This will provide your horse with nutrients, as well as hydration, in a tasty format. Try to avoid grain for several days, since hay is preferred once the signs of colic are presented.
Pets Editor
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