Digestive problems in horses

Digestive problems in horses are among the most common causes of morbidity and even mortality, due to the high sensitivity of their digestive systems. I will list them from common to dangerous, with main signs and causes:

Colic – the most important

A general name for abdominal pain, with many subtypes:

Common types:

   •   Gas colic – gas buildup due to diet/food change

   •  Constipation colic – lack of water, insufficient fiber

   •  Sand colic – eating on sandy ground

   •  Torsion/incarceration colic – surgical emergency

Signs:

   •   Restlessness, rolling

   •   Kicks in the stomach

   •  Loss of appetite

   •   Sweating, rapid pulse

Gastric Ulcers (EGUS)

Very common, especially in sport horses

Causes:

   •   Prolonged fasting

   •   Stress

   •   A lot of grain and little hay

Symptoms:

   •  Decreased appetite

   •   Weight loss

   •   Irritability while riding

   •  Recurrent mild colic

Diarrhea

Possible causes:

   •   Bacterial/parasitic infections

   •   Fast food change

   •  Antibiotic therapy

   •   Toxins

Risks:

   •  Dehydration

   •  Electrolyte loss

Gastrointestinal parasites

Common:

   •   Strongyles

   •   Ascarids (especially in foals)

Signs:

   •  Swollen abdomen

   •  Fallen fur

   •  Recurrent colic

   •  Diarrhea / constipation

Impaction

Causes:

   •   Too coarse hay

   •   Insufficient drinking

   •  Dental problems

Signs:

   •  Decreased stools

   •  Mild-moderate abdominal pain

Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome/Malabsorption

Less common but chronic

Symptoms:

   •   Weight loss despite appetite

   •  Chronic diarrhea

   •   Weakness

Warning signs that require immediate veterinary attention:

   •   Severe pain that does not go away

   •   Complete lack of bowel movements

   •   Heart rate over 60

   •   Heavy sweating

   •   Horse lies down and does not get up

Prevention – Critical in Horses:

   •   Free or frequent quality hay

   •   Gradual feed change (7–10 days)

   •  Always available and clean water

   •  Controlled deworming based on fecal tests

   •  Regular dental care

   •  Avoiding unnecessary stress

*It is always advisable to consult a qualified veterinarian.