Serum cortisol was studied in horses with experimentally induced large colon impaction treated with isotonic polionic enteral solution (EN) and intravenous fluid therapy (IV). Blood samples were collected from ten animals divided into two groups of five horses. Equines from group EN received isotonic polionic enteral solution (8mL/kg/h/48h) and, from group IV received Ringer lactate (16mL/kg/h/12h), during two days. Large colon impaction provided higher serum cortisol in both groups (P<0.05). The isotonic polionic enteral solution (EN) and the intravenous fluid therapy with Ringer solution (IV) were efficients in reducing serum cortisol in horses with experimentally induced large colon impactions.
Colic; stress; homeostasis; prognosis
