Colic — abdominal pain in horses — is the leading cause of horse death and represents one of the most acute welfare emergencies in equine medicine. Understanding risk factors and prevention saves both horse lives and welfare.
Colic welfare depends on both prevention and response. Prevention through appropriate feeding management — ad libitum forage, gradual diet changes, consistent feeding times, unlimited fresh water and parasite control — reduces risk significantly. Response through prompt recognition and immediate veterinary contact is the primary determinant of outcome for severe cases. Horses in colic pain experience acute and severe suffering — early analgesia and prompt assessment are both welfare imperatives and clinical necessities. Horse owners who know the signs, have their vets contact details readily available, and respond without delay save both welfare and lives.