Approach to abdominal pain in the post-partum mare

Colic in the post-partum mare can be a diagnostic challenge. Severity of abdominal discomfort can vary from mild discomfort to severe abdominal pain. Mild signs of colic may be associated with uterine contractions or retained fetal membranes. More severe abdominal discomfort may be associated with uterine haemorrhage, large colon volvulus or incarcerated small intestine. A mare that is violently uncomfortable and sweaty on presentation is likely suffering from large colon volvulus, providing uterine artery haemorrhage has been ruled out. Signs of fever, inappetance and endotoxaemia can be associated with uterine tear (discussed elsewhere), devitalised small colon or rectum secondary to trauma during foaling, trauma to another viscus or retained fetal membranes. A comprehensive approach to diagnosis should include a thorough evaluation of the reproductive tract, gastrointestinal tract and the urinary tract ...