It’s a fact of life that horses are prone to colic. Nonetheless, there are ways you can help reduce the risk.
Always have fresh, clean water available. That means ensuring that water stays thawed in winter and that your horse is watered frequently during trips.
Pasture turnout is important too. And keep in mind that hay should form the basis of your horse’s diet — not pelleted and sweet feeds, which should be fed only when necessary.
Preventive care is a must — that includes parasite control and frequent floating of your horse’s teeth to maintain normal chewing surfaces. Keep a close eye on horses that have colicked before. Also, avoid repeated use of phenylbutazone, or bute, which can mask signs of colic.
Above all, monitor your horse yourself as often as possible. After all, no one knows your equine buddy better.