I believe that horses are one of the most majestic creatures ever created. Horses have existed on this Earth for almost 50 million years. It would be a shame if they go extinct. That’s why it’s important to know how to care for a horse.
Since horses are known all around the globe, you’ve probably seen or even touched one yourself. Horses have almost 400 different breeds and can range from any size (learn more). They say horses are very social animals. You may have known by now that they live in groups that are often called a herd.
These creatures are indeed majestic but caring for one may also cost you. Nobody said that caring for a horse will be a piece of cake. These powerful animals may take up your time and money. But that is nothing to worry about if you know how to care for them properly.
If they happen to catch any illnesses, it will cost you a lot. That’s why you should always be careful. There are conditions that your pet may experience if it isn’t dealt with correctly. An example is horse colic.
Colic in horses is often referred to as abdominal pain. That means there is a painful problem in their abdomen. But not to worry, any of them can experience colic. But not knowing what to do can be a problem. Knowing how to care for your pet is your number one priority when it is in pain. You want to ease its suffering but don’t know how? That’s what we’re here for.
Conditions That Cause Colic
- Gas
- Grain Overload
- Sand Ingestion
- Impaction
- Parasite Infection
Signs of Colic
- Rolling
- Repeatedly lying down
- Sweating
- Loss of appetite
- Lying on back
- Pawing on the ground
- Heart rate is different
Check out this link to learn more! https://www.ed.ac.uk/files/imports/fileManager/dvepfactsheet-colic.pdf
Since you have read the signs and conditions, you already know if your horse will act strangely. It’s also important to consider what kind of pain they’re feeling. You may not know what they’re going through. It’s important to stay by their side.
How to Prevent and Treat Colic
- Always have a supply of freshwater
- Plan a proper diet that consists of high-fiber
- Make sure that what you’re feeding is clean and good quality
- Make them do an exercise regularly
- It’s important to take them on walks when they are experiencing colic
- After their exercise, help them cool-off
- Have dental checks regularly
- Make sure to keep up with their worm control programs
When you happen to notice that all symptoms may be associated colic, it’s advisable to call your vet. But there are also helpful resources that can be found in your home. For example, peppermint and chamomile. Be sure to check more info online!
It’s important to know the usual behavior of your pet or you won’t be able to know if it has colic or not. Being aware of their health is the first step to becoming a better owner. Always know their pulse rate, respiratory rate, and temperature.
Normally, when you feel that your pet may be sick, you’d often feed it. When it comes to colic, avoid feeding your friend there because that may be the cause. Closely monitor them. Don’t let them access any grains or hay. Let them see a veterinarian first before you jump into anything else.
Since one of the causes is gas, it’s advisable to walk your horse when that happens. If it’s only mild colic, the pain may subside if you take them on walks. Simply go out for a quick walk but don’t tire them out. It’s still important to give them enough rest and exercise.
As I’ve mentioned before, know your pet’s behavior. Looking for something that’s out of the ordinary may help you sort it out quickly. Also, never medicate on your own! The best remedies you can try out are the home remedies. However, medicine or any of the sort is not advisable without your veterinarian’s approval.
To avoid other injuries or problems, your horse must be in a safe area. It must be free from hazardous items, so they won’t get hurt. Having a safe place for it will help them avoid further problems. Since they will experience restlessness, it’s better to be sure. Keep your pet calm as well. Until the vet arrives when you have called one. Trust me, knowing all this will help you way better than you think.
