Providing fluid therapy to equine colic patients. Part 2

Abstract

Background: Fluid therapy is a controversial topic in both human and veterinary medicine. While it is appreciated that fluid therapy can be immediately life‐saving, particularly in animals suffering from hypovolaemic shock, it is increasingly recognised that inappropriate fluid therapy can lead to significant morbidity.Aim of the article: This article, the second in a two‐part series, considers some clinical aspects of fluid therapy in adult horses with colic and some of the controversies surrounding fluid rates, fluid types and the management of metabolic acidosis. The first part, published in last month's issue of In Practice, discussed basic physiological concepts of body fluids, available fluid types and the practicalities of administration in the adult horse.