Stomach

After exiting the esophagus, food enters the stomach to begin the digestive process. The stomach mechanically and chemically separates food into smaller pieces prior to entry into the small intestine. Due to anatomical differences, horses cannot vomit. This inability to vomit predisposes horses to colic. Horses with colic may “dog sit”, roll on the ground, and/or look back and kick at their abdomen. Stomach-related colic may be caused by ulcerations, impaction, or dilatation of the stomach. Colic requires immediate veterinary attention.