As the cold sets in across our region, we’re seeing a noticeable rise in colic cases — particularly in older horses. At Bungendore Vet Surgery, we want to help you stay informed and proactive so you can keep your horses healthy and comfortable during the winter months.

What Is Colic?

Colic is a general term used to describe abdominal pain in horses. While there are many forms, impaction colic is the most common type we see during winter. This occurs when a blockage forms in the digestive tract, often due to reduced water intake, dietary changes, or slower gut motility.

Older horses are especially at risk. Dental issues may affect their ability to chew hay properly, and they’re often less inclined to drink cold water, increasing the likelihood of dehydration.

Signs to Watch For

Early signs of colic can include:

• Restlessness or pawing at the ground

• Repeatedly lying down and getting up

• Looking back at their flanks

• Dullness, lack of interest in food

• Stretching out as if trying to urinate

• Reduced or dry, hard manure output

Why Is Winter So Risky?

Several winter-specific factors contribute to impaction colic:

• Horses often drink less when it’s cold, especially if troughs freeze overnight.

• The switch from pasture to hay can reduce digestive moisture, particularly if hay is coarse or fibrous.

• Tooth sensitivity or dental problems may discourage water intake or hinder proper chewing.

• Reduced turnout and exercise slow gut movement.

• Less pasture means increased hay consumption, which can be problematic if not balanced with sufficient hydration.

How to Help Prevent Winter Colic

Here are some simple but important ways to help protect your horse this winter:

Encourage water intake
Provide fresh, clean water at a comfortable temperature (7°C–20°C). Adding warm water in the morning or soaking/dampening hay can help increase water consumption.

Monitor manure
Watch for dry or reduced droppings — a clear sign your horse may be dehydrated.

Book regular dental checkups
Make sure dental issues aren’t preventing your horse from chewing properly or drinking comfortably.

Feed consistently
Avoid sudden diet changes. Keep feeding times and types of feed as stable as possible.

Promote movement
Turnout and light exercise, even on chilly days, help keep digestion moving and reduce colic risk.

When in Doubt, Give Us a Call

If you have any concerns about your horse’s digestive health or winter management, don’t wait — early intervention is critical. We’re always here to help with advice, checkups, and support.