Pet Talk

Horses have delicate and complex gastrointestinal systems compared to many other animals, leaving them susceptible to digestive disorders, such as colitis.

“The term ‘colitis’ means inflammation of the large intestine, which is most often accompanied by diarrhea,” explained Dr. Amanda Trimble, a clinical assistant professor of equine internal medicine at the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. “There are many different causes of colitis in horses, some potentially more severe than others, and associated signs largely depend on if the disorder is acute (rapid onset) or chronic (long-lasting).”

Because timely recognition and intervention are crucial to preventing the progression of colitis and minimizing its impact on a horse’s health, Trimble advises owners to closely monitor their horses for any signs so that if it arises, a veterinarian can determine the cause as soon as possible.

When the delicate balance of a horse’s digestive system is disrupted, the large intestine can become inflamed and not absorb water as it should, causing the typical watery and frequent bowel movements associated with colitis. The excessive loss of fluids through persistent diarrhea can make horses extremely dehydrated and, if left untreated, can lead to additional symptoms, depending on whether the condition is acute or chronic.

Acute colitis can be lifethreatening because of the rapid dehydration that can result from the diarrhea’s sudden and potentially severe nature. Symptoms of acute colitis that can accompany diarrhea include lethargy, colic, or abdominal pain, lack of appetite, fever greater than 102 degrees Fahrenheit,tacky mucous membranes, as evident by dry gums or dry lower eyelids, and signs of endotoxemia, a bacteria from the gut that circulates around the body.

Chronic colitis, on the other hand, is a condition that usually develops over time and can cause a loss of essential nutrients in addition to a loss of fluids.

It is important for owners to contact a veterinarian as soon as they notice the development of diarrhea or other symptoms so that the veterinarian can determine the underlying cause.

“There are infectious causes of equine colitis that can spread from horse to horse – or even horse to human – through feces, including potomac horse fever, salmonella, equine coronavirus, and clostridial diseases,” Trimble explained. “Small strongyles (a type of intestinal parasite), an altered gut microbiome from diet changes, sand ingestion, or antibiotic use may cause colitis as well.”

In some horses, diarrhea can be confused with fecal water syndrome, a condition that looks similar to colitis.

Different causes of colitis may require different treatment approaches, so owners should work with their veterinarian to ensure timely care.

“Providing care early is critical, as horses can become seriously dehydrated very quickly,” Trimble explained. “Owners should give their veterinarian a good history of any management, environment, herd, or medication changes to help them determine how to best treat the horse.”

By staying vigilant about digestive changes in your horse and collaborating with veterinarians, horse owners can play a vital role in the well-being and quick recovery of their equine companions.