Sand Colic: Risk Factors, Detection, Treatment, and Prevention

Colic (abdominal pain), caused from the accumulation of sand and small pieces of gravel in the large colon, continues to be a problem for horses. In one study, of the cases of colic with an identifiable cause, 5% of the reported colic cases were due to sand. This was greater than those caused by gas (3%), mesenteric arteritis caused by small strongyles (1%), and ingestion of moldy grain (1%). It is interesting to note that the cause is unknown with the majority of colic cases. It is unclear how much sand accumulation is needed to create signs of colic. A retrospective study in California found, of the surgical sand colic cases reviewed, over two-thirds of these cases resulted in sand impaction, while 25% had an accompanying displacement or twist (volvulus) of the large colon. While not the most common cause of colic, sand colic can be serious and is preventable. This fact sheets discusses the risk factors associated with sand colic and offers preventative tips to minimize the occurrence of sand colic in horses.