The efficiency of enteral fluid therapy was checked in 14 equids (12 horses and two mules) presenting large colon impaction. The age of the animals ranged from 1.5 to 20 years old. All equids were fed chopped "capim elefante" (Pennisetum purpureum Schumach). The first colic signs were observed in the hospitalization day in six cases, one day before in five cases, three days before in one case, four days before in one case, and six days before in one case. One horse was sprayed with amitraz two days before the first colic signs. At hospitalization all animals showed dehydration, mild to moderate intermittent pain, dried feces, and impacted mass in large colon. Eleven animals were medicated with analgesics. Water was administered by nasogastric tube for all animals. The maximum volume administered at each time was 10 liters and the minimum interval between administrations was 30 minutes. The total volume administered for each animal ranged from 60 to 223 liters (mean, 119.14 liters). During treatment the animals were fed only with grain meal and mineral supplement. Two physical exams were done every day and all equids showed poliuria, gradual abdominal volume reduction, feces softening, and regression of dehydration signs. Duration of treatment was one to six days (mean, 2.57 days). At the end of fluid therapy, none animal showed abdominal pain or large intestino impaction. It may be concluded that enteral fluid therapy was efficient to treat large colon impaction in equids.
impaction; colic; enteral fluid therapy; equids
