Equine Colic 101 - Ask The Horse

This episode of Ask the Horse Live, hosted by Haley Pepper, dives deep into equine colic—a term for abdominal pain with diverse causes ranging from gas buildup and impaction to intestinal twists and surgical emergencies. Expert panelists Dr. Matt Fergaro and Dr. Bianca Rusty provide comprehensive insights into recognizing early signs of colic, such as pawing, flank watching, rolling, reduced appetite, and abnormal manure, while emphasizing the importance of early veterinary intervention. They discuss prevention strategies like consistent water access, routine dental care, stress reduction, and gradual feed transitions. The conversation covers critical topics including the role of deworming, the impact of weather changes, and the risks associated with age and breed predispositions. A significant portion of the discussion focuses on colic surgery—its success rates, costs (ranging from $5,000 to $30,000), and the importance of timely hospitalization. The hosts also address insurance limitations, financial preparedness, and the emotional weight of euthanasia decisions in severe cases. Throughout, the experts stress that while colic is common, many cases are preventable with attentive care and proactive management. Key takeaways include: 1) Colic is a symptom, not a disease—early recognition saves lives; 2) Always monitor your horse’s behavior and environment, especially during weather shifts; 3) Never delay calling a vet for signs of colic, even mild ones; 4) Prepare for emergencies with basic supplies like a thermometer and knowledge of how to take a heart rate; 5) Consider financial planning—insurance helps but doesn’t cover everything; 6) Walking a colicking horse can help with gas colic but may be unsafe in thrashing cases; 7) Older horses can survive colic surgery with good outcomes, especially if treated early; 8) Gastric ulcers are a common, often overlooked cause of recurrent colic. The tone is informative, empathetic, and urgent—balancing medical expertise with real-world practicality and emotional support for horse owners.