Abdominal Pain in Foals

Abdominal pain in the foal can be a frustrating diagnostic challenge as the differential diagnosis are extensive (See Table 1). Abdominal pain can progress rapidly leading to septicemia or even death. The approach to the neonate with a painful or distended abdomen includes history, type and dose of analgesics, administered and whether there are any animals affected with diarrhea. Surgical versus medical treatment may be determined with a proper history and physical exam. Mild signs of colic ( Example: Meconium Impactions or Rotavirus) may include restlessness, attempts to defecate, swishing the tail, straining to urinate/urinating frequently, walking around the stall and not nursing. Severe colic signs should not be ignored and may include bloating, lying down and rolling, abdominal distention, and full body sweat. Immediate placement of a stomach tube should be performed in any foal that had chronic mild signs or colic or violently colicky. The age of the animal is also important in the determination of risks of certain conditions. […]