As the warmth of spring begins to thaw the cold of winter, many horse owners look forward to the renewal of their horses’ routines, fresh pastures, and outdoor activities. However, this season can bring with it a particular health concern: colic. Spring colic is a type of gastrointestinal distress in horses that can be triggered by a variety of factors commonly associated with the changing seasons. Understanding the causes and taking preventive steps can help minimize the risk of this painful condition for your horse.

What Is Colic?

Colic is a general term for abdominal pain in horses. It is a serious condition that can range from mild discomfort to life-threatening situations. The most common causes of colic include gas, impaction, twisted intestines, or intestinal displacement. Although colic can occur at any time of year, spring brings with it specific risk factors that can increase the likelihood of colic episodes.

Causes of Spring Colic

  1. Change in Diet: One of the primary contributors to colic in spring is the change in diet. As pastures begin to grow lush and green after the winter, horses often have access to an abundance of fresh grass. This new diet, high in sugar and water content, can be hard for a horse’s digestive system to process, especially if they have been fed hay or stored feed throughout the winter. Sudden access to fresh pasture can result in gas colic, as the horse’s digestive system struggles to adjust to the increase in carbohydrates and fiber.
  2. Increased Activity: With the arrival of warmer weather, horses are often exercised more frequently or allowed more time to roam freely in paddocks or fields. If a horse isn’t gradually conditioned back to exercise after winter downtime, the increased activity can put additional stress on their digestive system, potentially leading to colic.
  3. Dehydration: Despite the warmer weather, springtime can still see fluctuating temperatures, and horses may not drink as much water as they need to stay properly hydrated. Dehydration can contribute to digestive issues and increase the risk of impaction colic. A lack of proper hydration can lead to constipation and difficulty in passing manure.
  4. Parasite Loads: Spring is also the time when parasite activity ramps up, especially as horses spend more time grazing. High parasite loads in the intestines can lead to inflammation, impaction, or other forms of colic. If your horse’s deworming schedule isn’t up-to-date, they may be at higher risk for these gastrointestinal issues.

Prevention Tips for Horse Owners

1. Gradual Introduction to Spring Pastures

Thinline Flexible Filly Grazing Muzzle for Spring Colic Prevention in Horses available at FarmVet

To avoid colic triggered by overeating fresh grass, introduce horses to pasture slowly. Begin with short grazing sessions (about 30 minutes) and gradually increase the time over a period of two weeks. This allows their digestive system to adjust to the change in diet. Consider using a grazing muzzle for additional control of your horse’s grass consumption.

2. Provide Consistent Access to Hay

Tough-1 Fence Feeder for Hay For Horses available at FarmVet

Even as fresh grass becomes available, continue to provide your horse with access to hay, which is a familiar and more easily digestible food source. Utilize a hay feeder to ensure the hay stays fresh, clean, and appetizing for your horse. The balance of hay and pasture is key to ensuring a safe transition to a spring diet.

3. Monitor Water Intake

Horse Drinking Water

Ensure that your horse always has access to clean, fresh water. If the weather warms up suddenly, horses may need additional encouragement to drink. Consider adding a salt block to their stall or paddock to encourage them to drink more water. Additionally, flavored water additives such as that from Gallagher’s Water can help encourage your horse to drink.

4. Regular Deworming

Dewormers for Horses available at FarmVet

Work with your veterinarian to establish a deworming schedule that fits your horse’s needs. Parasite control is an essential part of preventing colic, as a high parasite load can cause intestinal issues and discomfort. If you aren’t sure where to start, read our blog for more details on establishing a proper deworming schedule.

5. Limit Sudden Exercise

Ramard Total Blood Fluids Muscle Electrolytes and Amino Acids for Horses available at FarmVet

As spring arrives, don’t push your horse into rigorous exercise too quickly. Allow them to gradually build up strength and stamina to avoid digestive upset from overexertion. Warm-up and cool-down routines are also crucial to ensure a smooth transition into a more active season. Amino acid and electrolyte supplements can also be beneficial during this time as you ramp up your horse’s exercise.

6. Monitor for Early Signs of Colic

Cavalor Emergency 911 for Spring Colic in Horses available at FarmVet

Be vigilant for signs of colic, which can include restlessness, pawing, rolling, lack of appetite, or changes in manure consistency. Early intervention can make a significant difference in preventing more serious complications. If you suspect any signs of gastric discomfort, a probiotic paste such as Cavalor’s Emergency 911 can help alleviate intestinal pain as you wait for your vet to intervene. 

Get Ready for Spring

By managing diet transitions, ensuring proper hydration, and staying on top of deworming schedules, you can significantly reduce the risk of colic and help your horse enjoy the spring season to the fullest. Get all your spring essentials and more at FarmVet so you’re prepared for whatever this season brings you.  Always consult with a veterinarian if you have concerns about your horse’s health, and remember that prevention is key to maintaining a happy, healthy horse year-round.

Learn More

Grazing muzzles can be a helpful tool as our horses adjust to the increased pasture time and luscious grass. Discover when and how to properly utilize a grazing muzzle for your horse.