🏖️ Vet Guide 2025: Safely Eliminating Sand from the Horse’s GI Tract 🐴💩

Author: Dr Duncan Houston, BVSc

Sand colic is one of the most overlooked but common forms of equine digestive distress—especially in regions with sandy soils. Horses that graze close to the ground or eat hay off sandy surfaces can ingest small amounts of sand daily. Over time, this can accumulate in the large colon, leading to colic, impaction, and inflammation. In this 2025 update, Dr Duncan Houston explains the most effective ways to manage and prevent sand accumulation in the horse’s GI tract. 🐎📦

🌾 Why Sand Accumulates in the Gut

• 🍃 Horses fed hay or grain on sandy soil often ingest particles with their food
• 🌱 Grazing short grass allows sand intake with each bite
• 🏜️ Regions with sandy pastures or dry ground have the highest risk

Once inside the GI tract, sand settles in the colon and irritates the intestinal lining, slowing motility and potentially causing colic. 🧬

🔁 Common Symptoms of Sand Accumulation

• 🔁 Recurrent mild colic
• 📉 Decreased appetite or performance
• 💩 Loose stools or diarrhea with gritty texture
• 📡 Diagnosis often made via abdominal x-ray or ultrasound

💊 Vet-Recommended Sand Removal Treatments

Two main products are used to remove sand from the colon:

• 🟠 Psyllium husk (Metamucil® ingredient)
• 🟣 Magnesium sulfate (Epsom salts)

📊 What the Research Shows

A study in Helsinki, Finland, tested the effectiveness of these agents:

• Group A: Psyllium only
• Group B: Epsom salts only
• Group C: Both combined

✅ The group receiving both psyllium and Epsom salts showed the most significant decrease in sand, based on x-ray results. 📉

⚠️ Caution: Use in Renal Compromise

Because Epsom salts contain magnesium, high doses may stress the kidneys. Use caution in horses with:

• 🩺 Known renal disease
• 💉 Elevated kidney values on bloodwork

Always consult your vet before administering large doses. 💊

🧠 Dr Duncan Houston’s Tip

"The best way to fight sand colic is prevention—start with clean feeding, and use psyllium cycles when needed. Don’t wait for repeat colic to act." 🐴🩺

✅ Prevention Tips for Sand Colic

• 🪣 Feed in rubber tubs or hay nets—not directly on the ground
• 🌿 Allow grazing only on well-established grass pastures
• 📆 Consider monthly psyllium feedings for horses in high-risk areas
• 🔍 Monitor manure for sand accumulation using a fecal sediment test

🔚 Final Word: Clear the Sand Before It Causes Damage

Sand may seem harmless, but over time it can lead to chronic gut pain, poor absorption, and colic. With proper feeding habits, monthly sand-clear protocols, and attention to early signs, you can keep your horse’s gut healthy and sand-free. 🐎❤️

Need help managing colic or designing a sand prevention plan? Visit AskAVet.com or download the Ask A Vet app to connect with an equine vet today. 📱🏖️