Horse Colic: How to Recognize the Signs and React in Time?
Introduction
As a horse owner in Tunisia, you know how dangerous equine colic can be. This digestive disorder, often unpredictable, can sometimes be mild… or life-threatening if you don’t act quickly.
In this article, we’ll cover how to recognize the signs of colic, what to do immediately, and how to find an equine veterinarian in Tunisia.
Signs of Colic in Horses
A horse cannot express pain with words, but its behavior speaks volumes. Watch for these symptoms:
- Lying down, getting up repeatedly, or rolling on the ground
- Looking frequently at its belly or pawing at the ground
- Unusual sweating, restlessness, or stress
- Refusal to eat, absence of manure
👉 If your horse shows several of these signs, you must act quickly.
What to Do in Case of Equine Colic
If you suspect your horse has colic:
- Stay calm and move it to a safe area
- Prevent self-injury (avoid violent rolling)
- Do not give food or water before the vet’s advice
- Call an equine veterinarian immediately
⚠️ Every minute counts: the faster the treatment, the better the chances of recovery.
Treatment for Equine Colic
The treatment depends on the cause: a simple gas colic can be resolved with medication, while an intestinal twist may require surgery.
The veterinarian may:
- Administer painkillers or antispasmodics
- Insert a nasogastric tube to decompress the stomach
- Consider surgery in severe cases
👉 Colic is the leading cause of non-natural death in horses. Quick action makes all the difference.
Finding an Equine Veterinarian in Tunisia
Need a specialized equine emergency vet?
With TunisieVet.com, you can easily find an equine veterinarian in Tunisia, near your area, trained to manage colic and other life-threatening emergencies.