Colic Quiz

Spasmodic colic is:

• muscular spasms of the intestinal tract

• blockage of the intestinal tract

• a loop of trapped intestine that shuts off blood supply

Impaction colic is:

• A section of intestine becomes twisted or caught

• excessive fermentation caused by large quantities of gas and fluid produced by bacteria in the digistive tract

• blockage of the intestinal tract

Incarceration colic is:

• muscular spasms of the intestinal tract

• A loop of intestine becomes trapped and shuts off blood supply

• excessive fermentation caused by large quantities of gas and fluid produced by bacteria in the digestive tract

Displacement colic is:

• muscular spasms of the intestinal tract

• section of intestine becomes twisted or caught

• blockage of the intestinal tract

Gas colic is:

• Excessive fermentation caused by large quantities of gas and fluid produced by bacteria in the digestive tract, pain caused by distension of stomach or intestine when gas produced faster than released

• muscular spasms of the intestinal tract

• blockage of the intestinal tract

Signs of colic

• uneasiness/sweating

• Lack of gut sounds/lack of manure in stall or turnout area

• pawing/stretching

• lying down/trying to urinate

• looking or kicking at belly

Causes of colic include:

• overeating grain/changes in feed/spoiled feed

• drinking cold water when hot

• twisted intestines

• sand ingestion

• parasite overload

Treatment until vet arrives:

• Remove feed and water

• Trot in hand

• Turn out in paddock

• Walk in hand

• Let roll

General prevention:

• Frequent, regular feeding

• Avoid sudden feed changes - switch to new feed gradually over a 10-day period

• Provide ample water

• Proper dental care

• Good deworming program

Medical treatment may include:

• pain relief

• Antispasmodics

• Electrolytes and fluid therapy

• Surgery