Colic is the most common cause of premature death in horses and a major welfare emergency. Understanding prevention, early recognition, and appropriate response is essential for every horse owner.
Colic causes acute pain that can range from mild discomfort to severe agony in horses. The welfare significance is amplified by the potential for rapid deterioration — a horse with mild signs may develop a life-threatening surgical emergency within hours. Pain management with NSAIDs provides relief but may mask deterioration if the underlying cause is not resolved. The decision to pursue surgery involves both welfare and financial considerations; horses whose owners cannot afford surgery may be euthanized rather than treated. Colic prevention through appropriate feeding and management is both a welfare and a financial priority for horse owners.