Q: Why is there so much colic this time of year?
A: The most common reason for colic in cold weather is lack of water intake. When water sources become colder than normal, combined with less thirst, horses just drink less. This causes digestive problems since water is essential for proper processing of dry feed.
The best thing that you can do is to make sure that water sources do not freeze. If you can make sure that water temperatures remain constant, so much the better!
It can also help to salt your horse's food to make them thirsty. Salt should always be available and in cold weather, should be added to the grain to induce thirst. You can also add mineral oil to the grain mixture to keep digesta moving along the digestive tract.
Be sure to call a veterinarian if there is any question as to whether a horse has colic symptoms or is sick with something else, which is common in cold weather. Sometimes respiratory problems can show up in times of wide temperature fluctuations. Keep a close eye on all your animals in cold weather, particular attention should be paid to water sources.
Send your questions to:
countryclassicsnaches@hotmail.com
Kaia Sorem, DVM
WSU 1984
Veterinary Service
Pet Grooming
Country Classics Antiques
Hwy. 12 & 410 across from Slim's Market
Naches WA 98937
1-509-653-2108
Past Dr. Kaia columns:
Jan. 14, 2004 Why So Much Colic At This Time of Year?
Jan. 7, 2004 Mad Cow Disease Threat is Very Serious
Dec. 24, 2003 Warts on Horse's Muzzle
Dec. 17, 2003 Horse with a "Gravel" Lame Foot
Dec. 10, 2003 Dogs Have Fleas in Winter?
Dec. 3, 2003 Cats and Christmas Decorations
Nov. 26, 2003 Pigeon Fever in Horses
Nov. 19, 2003 Dogs with Signs of Lethargy or Intoxication
Nov. 12, 2003 Groom Dog Less in Winter?
Nov. 5, 2003 Dogs Eating From Cat Litter Box
Oct. 29, 2003 Dog Bad Breath
Oct. 22, 2003 Ultrasonic Teeth Cleaning for Dogs
Oct. 15, 2003 Navicular vs. Caudal Heel Syndrome
Oct. 8, 2003 Ambulatory Veterinary Practice
Oct. 1, 2003 Acupuncture for Animals
Sept. 24, 2003 Winter Care for Horses
Sept. 17, 2003 Found Sickly Puppy
Sept. 10, 2003 Horse Not Conditioned Properly
Aug. 27, 2003 Barrel Horse Anxious and Unwilling
Aug. 20, 2003 Cats Get Tumors From Vaccines?
Aug. 13, 2003 Horse Unshod All Year?