## Overview Sand colic results from accumulation of sand or dirt in the large colon, especially the right dorsal colon, transverse colon, and pelvic flexure. It is common in horses kept on sandy soil. Signs include recurrent mild colic, diarrhea with a cow-pat consistency, and weight loss. Sand can be detected by fecal sedimentation or abdominal radiographs. Auscultation may reveal sand sounds. ## Causes Ingestion of sand while grazing or eating off the ground. ## Diagnosis Fecal sand test, radiographs showing sand, and clinical signs. ## Treatment Fluids, laxatives (such as psyllium or magnesium sulfate), and pain relief. Surgery for complete obstruction. Prevention is critical. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good for most medical cases. Recurrent if sand intake continues. ## Prevention Feed in tubs or racks, not on the ground. Psyllium supplementation in sandy areas.
recurrent mild colic; diarrhea; weight loss; sand on fecal sedimentation; sand sounds on auscultation
## Overview Sand colic results from accumulation of sand or dirt in the large colon, especially the right dorsal colon, transverse colon, and pelvic flexure. It is common in horses kept on sandy soil. Signs include recurrent mild colic, diarrhea with a cow-pat consistency, and weight loss. Sand can be detected by fecal sedimentation or abdominal radiographs. Auscultation may reveal sand sounds. ## Causes Ingestion of sand while grazing or eating off the ground. ## Diagnosis Fecal sand test, radiographs showing sand, and clinical signs. ## Treatment Fluids, laxatives (such as psyllium or magnesium sulfate), and pain relief. Surgery for complete obstruction. Prevention is critical. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good for most medical cases. Recurrent if sand intake continues. ## Prevention Feed in tubs or racks, not on the ground. Psyllium supplementation in sandy areas.
recurrent mild colic; diarrhea; weight loss; sand on fecal sedimentation; sand sounds on auscultation