Horses don’t adjust well to rapid changes in routine. The bacteria in their gut, is slow to adjust therefore rapid changes can cause issue which if not caught early can mean seeing your vet. With the winter weather season upon us, we thought it important to remind you of easy ways to help your horse.
Keeping Horses Hydrated in Cold Weather
Horses need a steady supply of water to properly digest their food and maintain overall health. However, when temperatures drop, even the best drinkers may find it difficult to stay hydrated. Water can freeze quickly in cold weather, leaving horses with limited access to fresh water.
Tips to Prevent Water from Freezing:
Use a Ball to Break the Surface Tension
- Placing a small, lightweight ball (such as a cheap football) in your water bucket or trough can help keep the water from freezing. The ball moves with the wind, which disrupts the water’s surface tension and prevents it from freezing as quickly.
- Note: These footballs are widely available and inexpensive in most shops.
Add Boiling Water
- Before you leave the yard, pour a kettle of boiling water into your horse’s water trug or bucket. The heat from the boiling water will help delay freezing, giving your horse more time to drink before the water cools down too much.
By incorporating these simple tricks, you can ensure your horse stays hydrated and comfortable during the colder months.
The Importance of Movement for Digestive Health
Horses are designed to be constantly moving, and this movement is crucial for their digestive health. Without regular exercise or movement, the process of digestion slows down, which can lead to serious health issues.
Why Movement Matters:
- Digestive Function
Horses rely on movement to help their digestive system process food properly. As they move, their muscles help push food through the gut, aiding in the breakdown and absorption of nutrients. - Risk of Impaction Colic
When a horse doesn’t move enough, the food in their gut moves more slowly. This can cause the food to dry out, leading to a buildup of hard, dry material in the intestines, which can result in impaction colic—a potentially life-threatening condition where the intestines become blocked.
Encourage Regular Movement:
- Provide opportunities for your horse to move throughout the day, whether through turnout, exercise, or gentle walking.
- Avoid keeping horses in stalls for extended periods, especially if they are not getting regular exercise.
By ensuring your horse gets enough movement, you can help prevent digestive problems like colic and support their overall health.
Fewer Rugs for Horses in the Field: Encouraging Natural Movement
While it’s important to keep horses comfortable in cold weather, over-rugging them can sometimes limit their natural behaviors, including movement. In certain situations, fewer rugs can help encourage horses to move more, which is beneficial for their digestive health.
Why Fewer Rugs Can Be Beneficial:
Encourages Movement
If a horse feels a little cooler than usual, it is more likely to move around to generate body heat. This increased activity promotes better gut movement, helping to keep digestion on track and reducing the risk of colic.
How to Rug for Health:
If your horse is out in the field and has shelter available, consider using lighter rugs or no rug in milder weather to encourage them to be more active.
Monitor the weather carefully—make sure your horse has access to shelter and water, and ensure they aren’t exposed to extreme cold for prolonged periods.
By strategically reducing the amount of rugging, you encourage your horse to stay active and help support healthy digestion.
Clinical Signs of Impaction Colic: What to Watch For
Impaction colic occurs when there is a blockage or reduced movement of food or waste in the intestines, and it can be a serious condition requiring prompt attention. Recognizing the early signs of impaction colic can help ensure that your horse receives timely treatment.
Key Signs to Watch For:
- Decreased Appetite
A horse with impaction colic may show a reluctance to eat or drink, which can be one of the first signs of discomfort. - Lack of Normal Fecal Output
If your horse has not passed manure or is passing very little, this could indicate a blockage in the intestines. Straining without producing feces is another concerning sign. - Abdominal Pain
Signs of abdominal discomfort, such as:- Pawing at the ground
- Kicking at the belly
- Frequent rolling or attempting to lie down
- Lying down and getting up repeatedly (restlessness)
- Tachycardia (Increased Heart Rate)
A rapid heart rate (above 45-50 beats per minute in a resting horse) can indicate pain or distress, a common symptom of colic. - Mild to Moderate Sweating
Horses in pain may sweat, especially around the neck, shoulders, and flanks, even without significant exercise. - Change in Behavior
A horse in pain may become more irritable, lethargic, or may isolate themselves from other horses. - Gastrointestinal Sounds (or Lack Thereof)
A decrease or absence of normal gut sounds can indicate that the digestive system is not functioning properly, which is common in cases of impaction colic. - Signs of Shock
In severe cases, impaction colic can lead to shock, characterized by:- Weak pulse
- Cold extremities
- Pale or bluish mucous membranes
What to Do if You Suspect Impaction Colic:
- Call your vet immediately if you notice any of these signs. Early intervention is crucial in preventing complications.
- In the meantime, try to keep your horse calm and comfortable. Avoid feeding large amounts of food or water until your vet has assessed the situation.