26/03/2026
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⚠️ HEALTH ALERT - Impaction Colic - Dehydration and Hay Digestibility ⚠️
There has been a surge in cases of impaction colic recently, and the constant changes in weather and recent hay results may be contributing. Here is what to look out for ⬇️⬇️
🌡️❄️🌡️❄️Quick changes between hot and cold temperatures can lead to dehydration, because while the heat increases the water and electrolyte requirement, the cold can decrease thirst, so they may not be drinking enough.
🫗Once dehydration starts, it can be a tricky cycle to get out of.
Why?? When a horse's body gets low in sodium, it starts to conserve more water, and it actually LOWERS their thirst stimulus. So even though the horse needs to consume more water, their body isn't telling it them to drink more which only increases their dehydration.
🔬Hay digestibility
Recent analysis on this season's hay is showing some issues with high lignin and NDF levels, which means digestibility and energy availability go down. It also reduces gut motility, because it sits in the gut for longer and needs even more water to move it through.
⚠️Dehydration + high indigestible fibre = high impaction risk!
This is because impaction colic occurs when the water content in the large intestine decreases, and the feed content is dry and difficult to pass through, sometimes even leading to a blockage.
Prevention is key - here are some things you can do:
1️⃣ Make sure your horse has constant access to clean, cool and fresh water. They might not drink if the water gets too warm, or their troughs are dirty.
2️⃣ Supplement hay and add fibre diversity in the form of a mash, like Lupin Fibre Cubes. They are high in digestible fibre, and the extra water will support healthy gut function.
3️⃣Offer a rehydrating mash like Equi-Restore with plenty of water to provide electrolytes and support. This can be offered in smaller feeds throughout the day and may help encourage them to increase their water intake.
4️⃣ Provide a pink salt block in their stable or paddock.
If your horse is showing any signs of impaction colic, early recognition and treatment can improve outcome so call your vet immediately.
