What is Horse Gas?
Although most animals pass gas, careful attention needs to be paid to horses that pass gas frequently.
If your horse is passing excessive gas and has other gastric symptoms, is a serious and potentially life threatening condition known as colic may be the cause. Most horses will be ‘gassy’ from time to time, and if your horse shows no other symptoms, it is usually harmless (but smelly!).
If you hear significant amounts of gas rumbling when you place your ear to your horse’s abdomen and your horse is passing manure, you are most likely seeing colic activity. However, unless your horse is passing a great deal of loose runny stool, or seems in pain, the outcome is usually favorable.
Note: If you are unsure, or if your horse shows signs of pawing, looking at the flank, stretching out, lying down, and, in some cases, rolling – then consult your vet.
What Causes Horse Gas?
Gas is caused by the fermentation of waste products and food in the intestines. It can also result from inadequate access to roughage, poor parasite control, stress, and administration of certain medications.
Help for Horses with Gas
Treatment for gas or gas colic usually includes IV administration of an analgesic, hand walking, and tender loving care. Your veterinarian may decide to give the horse some mineral oil or other mild laxative to move the gas through the intestinal tract. Never give your horse human laxatives, or any other medication without consulting with your vet first.
Natural Remedies
There are many homeopathic remedies that can help to provide digestive support to horses and eliminate gas and abdominal problems. Chamomilla is a homeopathic ingredient that has been used in both ancient and modern times to calm the digestive system and address abdominal cramping and bloated stomachs.
Aconite napellus and Belladonna get to work on a cellular level to promote healthy digestion and calm in the digestive tract, intestines and bowels. To address chronic flatulence and excessive gas related to colic, Colocynth and Nux vom are beneficial and can be used regularly to support healthy stomachs.
