Sand colic

Worried hearing about prevalence of sand colic at the moment, want to understand why so you can help to prevent it? Have a read . . .

After chatting with a few vet friends and colleagues this week, they were all commenting about the increased number of cases of sand colic they have seen recently and I’ve had a few clients reporting their horses have had problems with it since the frost and snow has gone, so I thought it would be a good idea to do a post about. It is one of the lesser known types of colic & is so prevalent at this time of year but do you understand why? As when people think of sand they think of dry conditions in summer but that is not necessarily the case so if you can understand why, you can take better steps to prevent it in your horse. At this time of the year as grazing conditions and feeding practices increase the likelihood of sand ingestion. Colic, a general term for abdominal pain in horses, can stem from various causes, including impaction, gas, or intestinal displacement. Sand colic specifically occurs when horses ingest significant amounts of sand or dirt, which settle in the gut, typically the large colon. Over time, this buildup can lead to blockages, irritation of the intestinal lining, or in severe cases, gut motility issues.

How and Why Does It Occur?

Horses are at risk of ingesting sand when they graze on sandy pastures, eat hay or feed placed directly on the ground, or drink from sandy water sources. When they consume forage or grain contaminated with sand, small particles can accumulate in the intestines. While the horse’s digestive system is designed to move material through efficiently, large amounts of sand can settle in the colon, leading to discomfort, inflammation, or even obstruction.The abrasive nature of sand particles can also irritate the intestinal walls, causing inflammation, diarrhea, or discomfort. Left untreated, sand colic can progress to serious complications, such as impaction, requiring surgical intervention.

So, Why Is Sand Colic Common at This Time of Year?

Sand colic tends to spike during the autumn and winter months, especially in areas with sandy soils. Several factors contribute to this seasonal trend:

1. Sparse Pasture Growth: In autumn and winter, grass growth is very little or dormant, forcing horses to graze closer to the ground, where they inadvertently ingest sand or dirt.

2. Increased Hay Feeding: With limited grass availability, we feed more hay or on the field, hay becomes the primary forage source. When fed on sandy ground, hay can mix with soil, leading to unintentional sand consumption.

3. Dry, Windy Weather: During dry periods, dust and sand can easily contaminate feed or water.

4. Changes in Turnout Patterns: Horses may spend more time in confined areas, such as dry lots or sandy paddocks, increasing their exposure to sandy surfaces.

Preventing Sand Colic

Fortunately, there are several effective strategies to reduce the risk of sand colic in horses:

1. Feed Management:- Provide hay in areas of the field where there is a little more grass coverage rather than in poached areas or provide hay in feeders or on rubber mats to minimise contact with the sandy ground. Avoid feeding hard feed or supplements directly on the ground. Ensure pastures are well-maintained and not overgrazed, particularly in sandy areas. (See pictures)

2. Psyllium Supplements: Psyllium husk is a natural fiber supplement that can help move sand through the digestive tract. Feeding psyllium in cycles (e.g., one week per month) can aid in clearing accumulated sand from the gut.

3. Adequate Forage: Ensure your horse has constant access to high-quality forage, which promotes healthy gut motility and reduces the likelihood of ingesting sand during grazing.

4. Encourage Hydration: Proper hydration supports the movement of material through the digestive tract. Make sure your horse has access to clean, fresh water at all times.

5. Regular Turnout: Allow your horse ample time for turnout in areas with minimal sand exposure. Avoid keeping horses in sandy paddocks for prolonged periods. I know some that just turn out in the sand arena over winter with hay nets as the fields are too clay and deep with mud, but this can pose a significant risk as the hay falls out of the net on to the sand surface of the school which they then ingest. Putting rubber mats under the areas they are eating that can be easily moved when you want to ride on the arena can be of massive benefit.

6. Sand Testing: Perform periodic manure tests to check for sand presence. Mix a manure sample with water in a clear container, let it settle, and check for sand at the bottom. This can indicate if your horse is ingesting significant amounts of sand.

Signs of Sand Colic to Watch For As Early detection is critical in managing sand colic.

Common signs include:

✴️Loss of appetite

✴️Depression or lethargy

✴️Diarrhea or loose stools

✴️Abdominal discomfort, such as pawing, rolling, or lying down excessively

✴️Decreased gut sounds

✴️Weight loss in chronic cases

If you suspect sand colic, contact your veterinarian immediately. Early intervention can prevent severe complications and improve your horse’s chances of recovery.