Colic in horses: recognising early symptoms

What exactly is colic?

Colic is not a disease in itself, but an umbrella term for abdominal pain in horses. The causes vary widely: from a mild gas build-up or blockage to a life-threatening intestinal twist. Around 80% of colic cases resolve without surgery, but that doesn't mean you can afford to wait. With an intestinal twist or strangulation, every minute counts. The key is early recognition and swift action — and that starts with knowing your horse's normal behaviour.

The first warning signs

Early colic often manifests as subtle behavioural changes that are easy to overlook. Watch out for the following signs:

• Less interest in feed or water than usual
• Restlessly pacing back and forth in the stable
• Looking at or biting at the flank more often than normal
• Mild sweating without physical exertion
• Changed droppings: less or no manure in the past 6–8 hours

More obvious symptoms that require immediate action

As the pain increases, the signs become more pronounced. These are indications that the colic is already more advanced and that you should call the vet immediately:

• Pawing: repeatedly stamping with a front leg
• Lying down and getting up quickly, sometimes several times per minute
• Rolling or thrashing, where the horse sometimes throws itself against the wall
• Elevated heart rate above 48 beats per minute at rest
• Distended or tense abdomen, audible gut sounds or complete silence
• Pale or dirty-pink mucous membranes and a capillary refill time of more than 2 seconds

Measuring heart rate: the fastest indicator

The resting heart rate of a healthy horse is between 28 and 44 beats per minute. With colic this often rises early, even before the horse appears visibly restless. Measure the heart rate with a stethoscope behind the left elbow. A heart rate above 60 at rest is an acute alarm signal and always warrants an immediate call to the vet. Record the value with the date and time in the horse profile in EquiSight, so you have that information ready when the vet calls.

Risk factors you can monitor

Some horses are more susceptible to colic due to environmental or management factors. Common risk factors include:

• Sudden change in feed type or quantity
• Limited movement, for example due to prolonged box rest
• Insufficient water intake, especially in winter with cold drinking water
• Sand ingestion from grazing on bare, sandy pastures
• Parasites, particularly large strongyles in cases of inadequate worming

Recognising patterns with EquiSight

Colic is in many cases recurrent: horses that have had colic before are at increased risk. By consistently recording health notes, feeding schedules and vet visits in the horse profile, you can quickly see whether there is a pattern in timing or circumstances. EquiCoach can use that data to flag recurring risk moments, such as colic episodes that always occur after a change in hay type. This way you move from reacting after the fact to thinking ahead.

When should you call the vet?

In doubt? Call. An unnecessary call may cost you a consultation fee, but waiting too long could cost your horse its life. Call immediately if the heart rate is above 52 at rest, if persistent rolling cannot be stopped, if the horse is completely apathetic, or if there is visible abdominal distension. Always give the vet the heart rate, the last manure output, the temperature and a brief description of the behaviour. That information helps the vet assess how urgent the situation is and what needs to be done straight away.