Case control study to identify risk factors for simple colonic obstruction and distension colic in horses.
Authors: Hillyer M H, Taylor F G R, Proudman C J, Edwards G B, Smith J E, French N P
Journal: Equine veterinary journal
Summary
# Simple Colonic Obstruction and Distension Colic: Identifying Key Risk Factors Hillyer and colleagues conducted a case–control investigation comparing horses presenting with simple colonic obstruction and distension (SCOD) colic at two veterinary schools against matched population controls, examining management, feeding, exercise, behaviour, preventive care and medical history to establish causative associations. The multivariable analysis revealed several significant risk factors: stereotypic behaviours (crib-biting or windsucking), increased stabling duration, recent alterations to exercise routines, absence of ivermectin or moxidectin treatment within the preceding 12 months, and travel within 24 hours before colic onset—with the backwards elimination model additionally identifying recent premises changes (under 6 months), prior colic episodes and infrequent dental care as contributory. Three factors demonstrated particularly substantial risk elevation: 24-hour confinement to stables, crib-biting or windsucking, and recent travel. For practitioners managing colic risk, this evidence supports prioritising parasite control protocols, maintaining consistent exercise regimens, minimising prolonged stabling where feasible, monitoring horses undergoing transport, and addressing underlying behavioural issues; additionally, the strong association between dental neglect and SCOD underscores the importance of preventative dentistry programmes in comprehensive colic management strategies.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Minimize continuous stabling and ensure regular exercise variation to reduce SCOD risk; horses with stereotypic behaviours (crib-biting/windsucking) require enhanced colic management strategies
- •Maintain parasite control with ivermectin or moxidectin annually and increase dental care frequency as preventive measures against simple colonic obstruction
- •Exercise caution around periods of travel and establishment changes, and monitor recently transported or newly arrived horses more closely for colic signs
Key Findings
- •Crib-biting or windsucking, continuous stabling (24 h/day), recent changes in exercise programmes, absence of ivermectin/moxidectin anthelmintic treatment in previous 12 months, and travel in previous 24 hours were significantly associated with increased SCOD risk
- •Three risk factors showed particularly large increases in SCOD risk: 24 h/day stabling, crib-biting/windsucking, and travel within 24 hours
- •Backward elimination model additionally identified residence on current establishment for less than 6 months, previous colic history, and infrequent dental checks/treatment as risk factors