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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/horse-bute-hides-colic

Why should you talk to your vet before giving a horse a painkiller like bute?

Bute can mask early colic signs, so ask your vet first.

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  1. It can hide early signs of colic ✔
  2. It makes the horse sleepy for days
  3. It stops the horse from drinking

Why: UMN Extension warns that bute can make horses prone to some types of colic and can hide early signs. Always talk to your vet before giving it.

Huh, didn't know that: UMN also says to avoid large or long-term doses of bute and to check with your vet first.

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Before the much-anticipated race, my jockey was very anxious. So I told him not to be impatient and hold on to his horses!
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References

Answer: It can hide early signs of colic. UMN Extension warns that bute can make horses prone to some types of colic and can hide early signs. Always talk to your vet before giving it.

  1. Colic in your horse (UMN Extension) extension.umn.edu/node/1526
    Treating with bute (phenylbutazone) can make horses prone to some types of colic and can hide early signs of colic.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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