4 ways to avoid sand colic in horses

You don't have to live in a sandy climate for your horse to suffer from sand colic. It's easy to think our horses may not be susceptible if we don't live in an area with predominantly sandy soil. However, sand often finds its way into the hay our horses eat or the short grass in pastures. A horse may hold up to sixty pounds of sand and dirt inside its gut before exhibiting symptoms.

If you suspect your horse is suffering from colic, sand may be the specific cause. Sand colic occurs when sand accumulates over time within a horse's digestive system. Sand is a probable cause if some or all of these facts are true of your horse:

1. Your horse lives in an area with loose soil or sand

2. Your horse grazes in an area known to have a lot of sand or a pasture with limited grazing space and short grass.

3. Your horse is older and shows less concern over what he or she ingests

4. Your horse eats their food off the ground (ground feeding) or spills feed and munches from the ground.

An Early Symptom of Sand Colic

A telltale symptom of sand colic is diarrhea, as it is specific to this type of colic. Diarrhea in your horse might be an early indicator of sand or dirt buildup. Sand accumulation can contribute to other types of colic, some more severe, like twisting or even rupturing of intestines. You can take quick action to prevent worsening symptoms and give your horse a healthier recovery and outcome.

How to Help Avoid Sand Colic

Sand colic is easier to avoid than some other types of horse colic. Here are 4 ways to help avoid sand colic in horses:

1. When feeding your horse hay, place it in a feeder or on a mat instead of feeding them straight on the ground, where sand might mix with the hay.

2. Include in your horse's diet a vet-approved supplement that helps to clean your horse's digestive system regularly. Read about using ColiClenz™ Plus Pellets on a 10-week feeding plan.

3. When feeding your horse on pasture, avoid doing so where the grass is short. Longer grass keeps your horse from digesting excessive sand or dirt while grazing.

4. Encourage your horse in the habit of drinking plenty of water! Adequate water will help move everything through your horse's digestive system and decrease accumulation and blockage.