Enteroliths in Horses

Enteroliths are mineralized stones that can form within the horse’s gut, causing obstruction. Learn what to do and how to prevent them.

What’s Causes Enteroliths in Horses?

Enteroliths are mineralized intestinal stones that sometimes form within the horse’s colon. Mineral salts in the horse’s intestine or colon sometimes form around the object. These struvite crystals are comprised mainly of magnesium, ammonium and phosphate. The condition can become serious if a stone gets too large to pass through the digestive tract.

Risk Factors

Risk factors for enterolith formation include:

– Geographical region – Diet high in alfalfa – Stall confinement – Sibling that developed the condition

Watch for Signs of Enteroliths in Your Horse

Clinical signs of enterolithiasis can include:

– Recurrent bouts of colic/abdominal pain – Depression/lethargy – Loose stool – Change in behavior/“crankiness” – Weight loss – Resentment when girth is tightened – Reduced performance – Reluctance to go downhill or jump