ABSTRACT
The equine alimentary tract comprises the oral cavity and its associated structures and the pharynx, oesophagus, stomach, small intestine, cecum, colon and rectum, and presents a challenging field of investigation for the equine clinician. The complicated anatomy, physiology and pathology means the use of a variety of techniques is required to enable the clinician to investigate and treat thoroughly any diseases affecting the gastrointestinal system. Horses are usually exposed via ingestion of alfalfa hay containing dead beetles that were trapped in the hay during harvesting. Horses with spasmodic colic may require no treatment, although analgesics are commonly administered, and their use is logical. Ingestion of foreign bodies may occur in horses of any age, but younger horses may be more commonly affected due to their adventurous nature. Horses may continue to pass faeces depending on the location and completeness of the obstruction. Most horses are euthanased because of poor response to medical treatment and deterioration of condition.
