Risk factors for large colon volvulus in the UK.
Authors: Suthers J M, Pinchbeck G L, Proudman C J, Archer D C
Journal: Equine veterinary journal
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Risk Factors for Large Colon Volvulus Large colon volvulus remains a catastrophic colic presentation with high mortality, yet the specific risk factors predisposing horses to this condition had never been systematically investigated in the UK until this 2013 multicentre study. Suthers and colleagues conducted a prospective case-control analysis comparing 69 horses that developed LCV with 204 control animals across four veterinary hospitals, using telephone questionnaires to gather detailed data on horse characteristics, management practices, and nutrition over the preceding weeks. Tallness, mare status (particularly in mares with previous foaling history), recent medication use, quidding behaviour, and prior colic episodes all significantly increased LCV risk, alongside management factors including prolonged stabling, larger yard populations, and multiple carers involved in daily care. Nutritional triggers were equally important: hay feeding, sugar-beet supplementation, recent pasture changes, and alterations in forage quantity within the preceding week were all associated with greater odds of LCV developing. These findings provide farriers, veterinarians, and yard managers with an evidence base for identifying vulnerable horses and implementing practical modifications—such as turnout optimisation, careful management of dietary transitions, and streamlined care protocols—that may reduce LCV incidence in at-risk populations.
Read the full abstract on PubMed
Practical Takeaways
- •Monitor tall mares with previous foaling history and horses with recurrent colic episodes closely, as these populations have higher LCV risk
- •Be alert to horses on recent non-anthelmintic medications or displaying quidding behaviour as potential LCV candidates
- •Review management practices for at-risk horses: minimise unnecessary stabling, standardise forage feeding, avoid rapid pasture or dietary changes, and ensure consistent caregiver routines
Key Findings
- •Increased height, multiple colic episodes in previous 12 months, and mares (especially those that had foaled) showed increased risk of LCV
- •Non-anthelmintic medication in previous 7 days and quidding behaviour were associated with increased LCV risk
- •Management factors increasing LCV risk included increased stabling hours, more horses on premises, and 3+ people involved in care
- •Nutritional risk factors included hay feeding, sugar-beet feeding, pasture changes within 28 days, and alterations to forage amounts within 7 days