In order to prevent colic cases becoming critical or fatal, an accurate diagnosis is crucial.

May transform the way the condition is diagnosed and treated

Vets at the University of Nottingham have published new research which could transform the way that colic is diagnosed and treated.

The studies, printed in Vet Record and the journal Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica, are the first published analysis of the initial presentation of colic.

They identify key, early differences between critical and non-critical cases, and compare how first evaluations of horses are conducted by vets.

It is hoped that the research will help owners and vets recognise critical cases as early as possible and improve the selection of diagnostic tests available.

One of the most common emergency problems seen in horses, colic is also one of the main causes of death. Diagnosis is difficult because there are a variety of different causes, ranging from intestinal spasms to the gut dying due to becoming trapped.  

In order to prevent colic cases becoming critical or fatal, an accurate diagnosis is crucial.  As part of Nottingham University's research, some 200 vets were asked how they go about diagnosing the condition.  

The survey revealed that there was a significant variation in how vets approached suspected colic and identified some of the main factors that affects vets decisions, including safety concerns of performing some procedures in the field.

Study author Professor Sarah Freeman said: “Our research has shown that colic is the condition that horse owners consider to be the most important emergency problem, and one of the most common 'out of hours' emergencies seen by vets.

"It can have catastrophic consequences without any warning, and is probably one of the most painful conditions the horse can suffer, so it has huge health and welfare impacts.”

PhD student, Laila Curtis, has dedicated her PhD, to her horse, Albert, who died from colic. She said: “If the Nottingham Colic Project can save one life by improving the recognition, diagnosis and therefore treatment of colic, I would consider that an enormous achievement.”

The research team has put together an online survey for vets and horse-owners to develop new guidelines on the recognition and diagnosis of colic. The team are also working with equine organisations and charities to communicate the final outcomes of new 'best practice' guidelines.  

To access the studies and take part in the survey, visit www.colicsurvey.com.