My horse can be best described now as lathargic. He is a 13 year fjord. He is off his feed and nibbles at grass or hay. He is spending most of his time just standing under a tree. Yesterday, I thought he was having a mild colic. Gave him 7 cc of banamine and walked him. He did perk up and was eating grass later that night. This morning, would not eat feed. It is very dry here. I gave him gatorade and put some in their water buckets. I saw him urinate and he has pooped once today. Overnight there were several piles. He has apparently laid down once today. I went to check him and he had leaves on him. I have not seen him wanting to lay down. He is cool in the shade and his breathing appears to be even. I live in north Florida. My vet is off today and I found this side. Thank you for any suggestions.Cathy Woody
Hi,I am sorry Tor is unwell.It does sound as though there is a low grade discomfort present and it may well be abdominal in origin.Spasmodic colic is the most common type and is caused by excessive gas build ups which causes spasming/cramping of the intestines and then the corresponding signs in the horse (lying down, flank watching, reduced appetite, reduced feacal output, sweating)However, low grade pain can also be caused by other conditions affecting the internal organs and can also be from pain elsewhere in the body.Banamine is a good painkiller and is helpful in colic/painful conditions. It can be used daily but care should be exercised as it can mask deterioration, so use should be judicious and certainly, the timing of its administration and volume given should be provided to the examining vet attends.The most important thing at present is the horses clinical stability and its need or not for urgent veterinary attention. Even though low grade spasmodic colic is common, it doesn't mean more serious types of colic are not possible and as such careful observation for him deteriorating should be employed.Signs of serious colic would be a heart rate above 48 beats per minute, increased pinkness/redness to the gums and an absence of guts sounds (which may be difficult to appreciate).It is good that he is passing motions and if a spasmodic colic is present then him exercising gently should be encouraged as this will stimulate intestinal movement and the passage of faeces and gas. Feeding a slushy bran mash is also helpful.I would certainly recommend immediate veterinary attention if he deteriorates or his heart rate is elevated or his gums appear red/purple.Otherwise if he remains stable but doesn't improve, get him checked at the earliest opportunity and the vet can examine him from top to toe, assessing temperature, gut sounds, lameness and also a possible rectal exam to appreciate any intestinal dilation.I hope this is helpful and I hope Tor recovers quickly and uneventfully.Good luck and best wishesDr Dan Makin