Spasmodic Colic

Introduction

Spasmodic colic is the most common cause of colic, it accounts for 72% of all colic cases, and 90% of colic cases seen in first-opinion practice. The etiology of the condition is unknown, it is characterised by intermittent mild episodes of abdominal pain which is due to increased peristaltic activity in the gastro-intestinal tract.

Signalment

Horses of any age and breed can be affected. The condition has been associated with:

• Heavy parasitic infection, especially tapeworms
• Change in diet
• Change in work
• Excitement

Diagnosis

Diagnosis can be made on a combination of clinical signs and response to treatment. The clinical signs are of mild colic, with hypermotile gut sounds on auscultation of the gastro-intestinal tract. The response to treatment is rapid and complete, or the discomfort may resolve spontaneously.

See Colic Diagnosis in Horses

Clinical signs

Horses show mild signs of colic, with hypermotile gut sounds on auscultation of the gastro-intestinal tract.

Occasionally rolling due to the abdominal discomfort can cause a volvulus, this is a more serious condition requiring surgery.

Treatment

Cases are usually easily resolved by treating with a spasmolytic such as Buscopan, and a mild analgesic such as phenylbutazone.

See Medical Treatment of Colic in Horses

Spasmodic Colic Learning Resources
Literature Search Search for recent publications via CAB Abstract (CABI log in required)	Spasmodic Colic in horses publications

References

• Blood, D.C. and Studdert, V. P. (1999) Saunders Comprehensive Veterinary Dictionary (2nd Edition) Elsevier Science
• Knottenbelt, D.C, Edwards, B., Mckane, S., and Proudman, C. Equine Gastroenterology University of Liverpool
• Merck & Co (2008) The Merck Veterinary Manual (Eighth Edition) Merial
• Rose, R. J. and Hodgson, D. R. (2000) Manual of Equine Practice (Second Edition) Sauders.
• White, N.A., Edwards, G.B. (1999) Handbook of Equine Colic Reed Educational and Professional Publishing Ltd

WikiVet® Introduction - Help WikiVet - Report a Problem