WITH THE WEATHER RAPIDLY CHANGING AND HORSES OFTEN ON RESTRICTED TURNOUT IMPACTION COLIC SOON BECOMES MORE FREQUENT IN THE EQUINE WORLD.
WHAT IS IMPACTION COLIC?
The term impaction refers to the accumulation of feed or other dry matter that causes an obstruction or blockage in the gastrointestinal tract. The passage of any further food is then prevented, and the impacted material starts to become dehydrated. Impactions cause discomfort or pain, leading to the classic signs of colic in horses.
WHY DOES IT OCCUR?
The most common cause of impaction colic is a change in the management of the horse.
Risk factors include immobility (box rest or constant stabling), dehydration and altered gut motility. Often with the snow and hard frosts, horses are stabled for prolonged periods, struggling to get them out for turnout or ridden exercise. When water is cold horses are less inclined to drink, and frozen buckets don’t help! Dehydration significantly increases the chances of impaction colic.
CLINICAL SIGNS
» Reduced faecal output – Reduced number of droppings or smaller in size
» Reduced appetite
» Dry droppings
» Colic signs – pawing, flank watching, rolling, restlessness, and increased time lying down.
HOW CAN WE REDUCE THE RISK?
» Ensure plenty of water is available at all times. Break ice frequently in cold weather and try floating a ball in the tank to prevent it from freezing completely.
» If facilities allow, turn out as much as possible in the winter, if this is not possible, hand walk horses regularly. REMEMBER – MOBILITY HELPS PREVENT POOR MOTILITY!!!
» Soak hay to increase water intake.
» Add extra water to your horses feeds. Sloppy feeds or mashes will increase water intake and stimulate gut motility.
» Feed a number of smaller feeds rather than 2 large ones.
» Monitor the number of faeces your horse passes day-to-day and take note of the consistency.
IF YOU SUSPECT AN IMPACTION, CALL YOUR VET AS SOON AS POSSIBLE!
TREATMENT MAY INCLUDE:
» A full physical examination including a rectal examination to diagnose the impaction
» Pain relief to aid the discomfort
» Naso gastric tubing with a large volume of water and electrolytes to soften the impaction
» Withholding of food to limit further feed accumulation
» In hand walking to stimulate gut motility
» Some, very severe cases, may require hospitalisation for intravenous fluid therapy or repeated nasogastric tubing. Some impactions may take a few days to clear, meaning hospitalisation is necessary.
Written by Beky Eastland-Jones, BVetMed MRCVS.
Marketing Executive
