Prevent Horse Colic

Store grain securely to avoid grain overload in horses. Share your grain storage tips below.

Gastric ruptures are usually caused by grain overload. A wayward horse finds her way into the grain storage area and just starts eating. And eating. Depending on the size of your horse, it may only take 10 to 15 pounds of grain to set off a deadly chain of events.

Grain overload is a serious situation. The earlier the condition is treated, the better the outcome. Contact your veterinarian at once. She may administer laxatives, mineral oil, fluids or anti-inflammatories.

Keep all grains bins securely locked and do not store concentrates or beet pulp in a location that is accessible to your horse. If possible, store grain and beet pulp in separate, locked storage areas.

Stack-N-Stor pet food storage bins hold up to 65 pounds and stack securely. Most importantly, they can be locked to keep out curious horses.

Old chest freezers (latches and electrical cords removed and horse-proof catches installed on the outside) make excellent, rodent-proof storage containers, as do metal garbage cans...lids locked, of course.