As the temperatures drop and winter sets in, horse owners face challenges, one of which is the increased risk of colic. Colic can occur for various reasons, but cold weather can exacerbate certain risk factors that contribute. Winter colic, specifically, is often linked to changes in routine, reduced water intake, increased reliance on dry feed, and limited exercise—all factors that can disrupt the delicate balance of the horse’s digestive system.
The Impact of Cold Weather on a Horse’s Digestive System
In winter, horses often drink less water, which can lead to dehydration and the formation of impaction colic—a type of colic where the gut becomes obstructed due to dry feed and reduced mobility. Horses may also eat more hay or other high-fibre feeds during this season, which can result in a heavier digestive load. Without enough water, fibre can accumulate in the intestines, leading to blockages. Cold weather can also reduce a horse's inclination to move as much as it does in warmer seasons which can slow down gut movement, making it harder to process food effectively.
Changes in routine, such as less pasture grazing and more time spent indoors, can upset things too. Horses thrive on routine, and sudden changes can lead to stress, which in turn can affect gut function. Cold-induced stress, coupled with decreased water intake and changes in feeding patterns, make winter a high-risk period for digestive problems, including colic.
Common Types of Winter Colic
Several types of colic are commonly associated with the colder months, and understanding these can help owners mitigate the risks.
- Impaction Colic: This is perhaps the most common form of colic seen in winter. Impaction occurs when a blockage forms in the intestines, typically due to an accumulation of dry feed and lack of water. Horses that do not drink enough during winter months are especially susceptible to impaction colic because the dry feed they consume (hay, grain, etc.) does not move through the digestive tract as easily without sufficient water.
- Gas Colic: Another common issue during the winter is gas colic, caused by an accumulation of gas in the intestines. This can result from changes in diet, particularly when a horse consumes large amounts of starchy or high-sugar feeds like grains, which can disrupt the natural bacterial balance in the hindgut and lead to excessive fermentation and gas production. Cold weather can also slow digestion, making it more likely for gas to build up.
- Spasmodic Colic: This form of colic is caused by the overactivity of the intestines, leading to spasms and severe pain. Spasmodic colic can occur when a horse experiences sudden changes in diet or routine, both of which are more common during the winter months. Stress from colder temperatures and restricted movement can further exacerbate this issue.
Preventing Winter Colic: Essential Management Tips
Preventing colic during the winter months requires focusing on hydration, proper feeding, and maintaining gut health. Here are some key management strategies:
- Encourage Water Intake: One of the most critical steps in preventing impaction colic is making sure your horse drinks enough water. Horses tend to drink less in cold weather, especially if the water is too cold. Providing warm water if possible can encourage them to drink more.
- Add Salt Blocks: Adding salt or electrolytes to their feed can stimulate thirst.
- Monitor Diet and Feeding Practices: As horses rely more heavily on hay during the winter, it’s important to provide high-quality forage and avoid sudden changes in diet. If your horse’s hay is particularly coarse or dry, consider soaking it to add moisture.
- Encourage Movement: Even if your horse is stabled more frequently during the winter, regular turnout and exercise are essential for keeping their digestive system functioning properly. Movement stimulates gut motility and can help prevent both impaction and gas colic, so even if turnout is limited, a walk round the yard is better than nothing,
While colic is not always avoidable, careful feeding, sufficient water intake and plenty of exercise can reduce the chances of your horse being affected by cold weather colic. But, if you are concerned about any unusual signs with your horse, it is always best to get advice from your vet.
