Lack of Association Between Barometric Pressure and Incidence of Colic in Equine Academic Ambulatory Practice.
Authors: Cianci Justine, Boyle Ashley G, Stefanovski Darko, Biddle Amy S
Journal: Journal of equine veterinary science
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Barometric Pressure and Equine Colic Whilst many practitioners and horse owners blame sudden weather changes for colic episodes, a 12-year retrospective analysis of over 3,100 emergency and routine cases from the University of Pennsylvania Field Service found no statistical association between barometric pressure fluctuations and colic diagnosis. Using multivariable logistic regression to cross-reference medical records with National Weather Service data, researchers examined both absolute pressure values and pressure changes, yet neither emerged as a significant risk factor. Instead, seasonal patterns proved more informative: colic risk peaked in autumn (1.72× baseline), spring (1.29×) and summer (1.85×) compared with winter, whilst latitude, sex (stallions 48% less likely to colic than mares) and breed (Quarter Horses 32% less susceptible than Thoroughbreds and Arabians) also influenced incidence. The findings suggest that whilst barometric pressure itself warrants dismissal from the list of direct colic triggers, the seasonal and geographical patterns identified indicate that other weather-related variables—humidity, temperature, feed/forage changes, or parasite lifecycles—may better explain the observed temporal clustering of cases. For practitioners managing colic risk, focus on these modifiable and environmental factors rather than preparing horses for pressure changes alone.
Read the full abstract on PubMed
Practical Takeaways
- •Weather folklore about barometric pressure triggering colic is not supported by evidence; practitioners can reassure owners that pressure changes alone are not a colic risk factor
- •Seasonal patterns (fall, spring, summer) and geographic location remain relevant considerations for colic risk management in equine practice
- •Breed and sex differences exist in colic prevalence, with mares and certain breeds (Thoroughbreds, Arabians) showing higher risk than stallions and Quarter Horses
Key Findings
- •Barometric pressure values and changes were not statistically associated with colic diagnosis (P = 0.1)
- •Horses that did not survive were almost 12 times more likely to have a colic diagnosis (OR: 11.97; P < 0.0001)
- •Colic diagnosis was significantly more likely in fall (OR: 1.72), spring (OR: 1.29), and summer (OR: 1.85) compared to winter
- •Stallions were 48% less likely to colic than mares (OR: 0.52; P = 0.016) and Quarter Horses were 32% less likely than Thoroughbreds and Arabians (OR: 0.68; P = 0.047)