What Is Colic in Horses?

Colic in horses is a general term for abdominal pain, not a single disease. It can range from mild gas discomfort to severe intestinal blockage or torsion (twisting). Horses are particularly prone to colic because their digestive system is long, delicate, and unable to vomit — meaning any blockage or gas buildup can quickly become dangerous.


Colic can appear suddenly and escalate fast, which is why recognising symptoms early and seeking veterinary help immediately is vital.


For more insight into early signs, read our related guide: Learn to Recognise Colic in Your Horse.



Common Causes of Colic in Horses

Understanding the cause of colic in horses helps reduce risk and manage prevention. Common triggers include:

  1. Dietary Changes – Sudden switches in feed or overconsumption of grain can upset gut balance.
  2. Dehydration – Lack of water, especially in hot weather, leads to impaction colic.
  3. Sand Ingestion – Horses grazing on sandy soils may accumulate sand in their intestines.
  4. Parasites – Worm infestations can obstruct the intestines or cause inflammation.
  5. Stress and Confinement – Limited movement reduces gut motility, increasing the risk of gas buildup.
  6. Dental Issues – Poor chewing can cause undigested food to clog the intestines.
  7. Weather Extremes – Colder months or summer heat can affect hydration and digestion (see Keep Your Horse Safe and Healthy in the Heat).

Each of these factors can disrupt the delicate balance of a horse’s digestive system — and what starts as mild discomfort can rapidly become life-threatening equine colic.



Recognising Horse Colic Symptoms

Catching the early warning signs of horse colic symptoms can be the difference between a simple recovery and an emergency. Common signs include:

  • Pawing or kicking at the stomach
  • Rolling or attempting to roll repeatedly
  • Restlessness or lying down frequently
  • Looking back at the flank or belly
  • Lack of appetite or interest in food
  • Little or no manure output
  • Rapid breathing or elevated heart rate
  • Sweating, trembling, or distress

Horses with mild colic may appear uncomfortable, while severe cases can become violent or lethargic. Always contact your vet immediately if you suspect colic — even mild symptoms can worsen quickly.



Diagnosing Colic

A veterinarian will assess your horse’s heart rate, gut sounds, hydration levels, and overall demeanour. Depending on the findings, diagnostics may include:

  • Rectal examination – to assess gut position and blockage
  • Nasogastric intubation – to relieve stomach pressure and check for reflux
  • Ultrasound or X-rays – to locate gas, fluid, or impaction
  • Blood tests – to evaluate infection or dehydration

These procedures help determine whether the colic is medical (manageable with medication) or surgical (requiring immediate operation).



Treatment Options for Colic in Horses

The cure for colic in horses depends on its cause and severity. Most mild cases respond to medical treatment, while severe cases may require surgery.


Here’s how vets typically approach horse colic treatment:


1. Medical Treatment


For mild to moderate colic, vets often administer fluids, pain relief, and horse colic medication such as:

  • Analgesics (pain relief) – e.g., flunixin meglumine (“Banamine”).
  • Antispasmodics – to reduce intestinal spasms.
  • Laxatives or mineral oil – to clear impactions.
  • IV Fluids – to rehydrate and restore electrolyte balance.

These treatments can often resolve gas or impaction colic without surgery.


2. Surgical Treatment


In severe equine colic cases (such as intestinal twist or displacement), surgery may be the only option. Surgical costs vary but can range from $5,000 to $15,000 NZD depending on complexity, aftercare, and hospitalisation time.


3. Post-Treatment Care


Recovery often includes stall rest, restricted feeding, and gradual reintroduction to exercise. Your vet may recommend follow-up exams and deworming programs to prevent recurrence.



The Financial Side: Treatment Costs and Insurance

Colic treatment can be unpredictable — both medically and financially. Even mild colic requires prompt veterinary attention, which means call-out fees, diagnostics, and medication.


Here’s what typical colic in horses costs might look like:

  • Initial vet visit and examination: $150 – $300
  • Diagnostic tests (ultrasound, bloodwork): $300 – $800
  • Medication and IV fluids: $200 – $600
  • Hospitalisation or monitoring: $500 – $1,500
  • Surgery and intensive care: $5,000 – $15,000+

Because colic can strike suddenly, having Pet-n-Sur Horse Insurance gives horse owners critical financial protection. Our horse insurance plans cover diagnostic procedures, hospitalisation, and surgery for colic — helping you make urgent decisions without worrying about cost.


For a full breakdown of why horse insurance matters, check out:
Insure Your Horse



Preventing Colic in Horses

While not all cases can be avoided, prevention goes a long way toward reducing risk. Here’s how you can help keep your horse’s digestive system healthy:

  1. Maintain a consistent feeding schedule. Sudden diet changes disrupt gut flora.
  2. Provide constant access to clean, fresh water. Dehydration is one of the top triggers.
  3. Encourage movement. Regular turnout keeps gut motility active.
  4. Feed plenty of roughage. Hay supports natural digestion and prevents impaction.
  5. Avoid sandy grazing areas. Use mats or raised feeders to reduce ingestion.
  6. Regular dental care. Ensure proper chewing and digestion.
  7. Routine deworming. Follow your vet’s parasite control plan.
  8. Monitor weather-related risks. Horses drink less in cold or extreme heat — increasing the likelihood of colic.

Learn more about maintaining your horse’s wellbeing in our related articles:



When to Call the Vet

Every horse owner should treat colic as an emergency. Contact your vet immediately if you notice:

  • Rolling repeatedly or violently
  • No manure output within several hours
  • Sweating, restlessness, or elevated pulse
  • Attempts to urinate or lie down frequently
  • Refusal to eat or drink

Even if symptoms seem mild, quick intervention can save your horse’s life — and reduce long-term costs.



How Pet Insurance Helps with Colic

Because colic treatment can be sudden and expensive, comprehensive horse insurance is the most practical safeguard. With Pet-n-Sur Horse Insurance, you’re covered for:

  • Veterinary consultations and emergency callouts
  • Diagnostic imaging and testing
  • Prescribed horse colic medication and IV therapy
  • Surgical intervention for severe cases
  • Ongoing aftercare and recovery support

Colic is one of the most common claims among horse owners — and one of the costliest. Having cover ensures your horse receives the best possible care when time is critical.



Key Takeaway

Colic in horses is unpredictable, painful, and potentially life-threatening — but with quick action, proper prevention, and reliable insurance cover, it doesn’t have to be devastating.


Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments allows you to respond fast, while comprehensive equine colic coverage ensures your horse receives top-tier care without financial strain.


Protect your horse today with Pet-n-Sur Horse Insurance — cover designed for peace of mind, from everyday care to critical emergencies.


Because when colic strikes, every minute — and every decision — matters.