Colic is a common but potentially serious condition in horses that indicates abdominal pain. Colic pain can be caused by a number of gastrointestinal problems, and occasionally may be due to pain in other systems or areas (muscles, chest, liver, etc.). Horses may indicate they have colic by rolling on the ground, pawing, or not defecating. Other common signs include:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Frequent attempts to urinate
• Stretching out
• Looking at their abdomen
• Excessive sweating
• High pulse rate
• Lack of appetite
• Lack of normal gut sounds
• Lying down
• Not drinking water

If you horse exhibits any of these signs, you should call your veterinarian immediately. If left untreated, in some cases, the horse may die or need to be euthanized.