Conditions
Horse colic — symptoms, causes & what to do
Colic is abdominal pain. In horses it is always serious — call your vet immediately if in doubt. Read about symptoms, causes and first aid here.
Published: 5/6/2026
EquiSight Editorial
Redactie · EquiSight · SaFleu Equestrian Centre BV
Symptoms
- Not eating or drinking
- Restless, pawing at the ground
- Lying down and getting up again
- Looking at or kicking at the belly
- Sweating without exertion
- Elevated heart rate (>48/min)
Causes
- Changes in feed
- Insufficient water (especially in winter)
- Too much concentrate feed
- Sand ingestion
- Stress
- Worm infection
What to do?
Call your vet immediately. Do not let the horse roll if it has severe colic. Walk the horse calmly if possible. Withhold feed and water until the vet arrives.