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

Which behavior is one of the most common signs of colic?

Repeated pawing, plus rolling and sweating, can signal colic.

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  1. Repeatedly pawing with a front foot ✔
  2. Yawning after meals
  3. Rubbing its tail on a fence

Why: Horses with belly pain may paw over and over, look at or bite their sides, lie down, roll and sweat. Call your vet right away if you see these signs.

Huh, didn't know that: Telling the vet how long the episode has lasted and how fast it is getting worse helps them decide how urgent it is.

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References

Answer: Repeatedly pawing with a front foot. Horses with belly pain may paw over and over, look at or bite their sides, lie down, roll and sweat. Call your vet right away if you see these signs.

  1. Colic in Horses (Merck Veterinary Manual) www.merckvetmanual.com/horse-owners/digestive-disorders-of-horses/colic-in-horses
    The most common signs of colic are pawing repeatedly with a front foot
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. Colic in Horses (Merck Veterinary Manual) www.merckvetmanual.com/horse-owners/digestive-disorders-of-horses/colic-in-horses
    lying down, rolling from side to side, sweating
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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HorsesIn horses, what does the word colic actually mean?HorsesYou think your horse has colic and are waiting for the vet. What should you do with its feed?HorsesPer UMN Extension, why might you hand-walk a horse that is showing early colic signs?

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