04/30/2026
Colic is one of those things most horse owners are aware of, but not always in depth enough that helps them catch it early. It’s often associated with the obvious signs like rolling or severe discomfort, but by the time it reaches that point, something may already have been building internally.
Colic simply means abdominal pain. It isn’t one condition, and it doesn’t come from one cause. It can range from mild and manageable to serious very quickly, which is why understanding the early changes matters just as much as recognising the obvious ones.
Often, the first signs are subtle. A horse may seem a little off their feed, slightly unsettled, or not quite themselves. There may be small shifts in behaviour, posture, or energy that don’t immediately raise concern but don’t feel quite right either. These are often the early changes, though not every case will show them clearly.
As things progress, the signs become more familiar. Pawing, looking at the flank, lying down more than usual, rolling, or noticeable changes in manure can all indicate that something is going on. In more serious cases, you may see sweating, increased breathing, or an elevated heart rate. These are the moments where it becomes important to act quickly rather than wait for clarity.
Colic often sits within the horse’s daily life and management. Feed changes, hydration, movement, routine, environment, and overall management can all influence how the digestive system functions. That doesn’t mean every case is preventable, but it does mean the bigger picture matters.
The key is not trying to diagnose from the outside, but learning to notice when something has shifted and responding early. You know your horse. When something feels different, it’s worth paying attention and acting early.
If you want a deeper understanding of what’s happening internally, the different types of colic, how risk factors actually work, and what people often miss, I’ve gone into this in detail in the subscriber group.
