Very Common
Less Common
OTHER DIAGNOSES CONSIDERED
Other conditions or ailments that might also need to be ruled out by a vet.
Diagnosis
Conditions or ailments that are the cause of a problem that you see - your observation.
Your vet may diagnose
Small Colon Impaction
Summary
The small colon is the last segment of intestine. It is 6-9 feet long and continues as the rectum.
Small colon impaction is more common in pony breeds and miniature horses. An impaction here is the most common cause of intestinal obstruction and severe colic in these breeds. Since it may be difficult for a vet to perform a rectal exam on these smaller breeds, reaching a definitive diagnosis may be challenging.
Horses with small colon impaction typically become very gas distended. Some horses respond to oral and intravenous fluids and nursing care. More severe cases may require colic surgery and physical removal of the impaction.
Small colon impaction is more common in pony breeds and miniature horses. An impaction here is the most common cause of intestinal obstruction and severe colic in these breeds. Since it may be difficult for a vet to perform a rectal exam on these smaller breeds, reaching a definitive diagnosis may be challenging.
Horses with small colon impaction typically become very gas distended. Some horses respond to oral and intravenous fluids and nursing care. More severe cases may require colic surgery and physical removal of the impaction.
my vet's role
Diagnostics Used
These are tests that might be helpful to make this diagnosis or further characterize the condition.
Very Common
Less Common
Treatments May Include
These treatments might be used to help resolve or improve this condition.
Very Common
Less Common
PROGNOSIS AND RELEVANT FACTORS
Prognosis is good with either intensive care or surgery.my role
I might observe
You might make these observations when a horse has this condition.
Very Common
Less Common
Skills I Might Need
I might need these skills if my horse has this diagnosis.
Less Common
further reading & resources
Helpful Terms and Topics
Written, reviewed or shared by experts in equine health