Everyone who’s involved in the horse industry undoubtedly has at least one sad tale of an equine injury or illness that was hard on their bank account or riding goals. According to Mike King, Partner and National Director of Equine Programming at Acera Insurance, the three most common equine insurance claims are for colic, ulcers, and lameness. Here’s why they’re prevalent, along with tips for prevention. 

#1 Colic 

“Colic, which includes any issues of the gastrointestinal tract, is the number one reason that horse owners submit insurance claims,” says King. Those claims cover every level of severity, from a few hours of pain to sudden death caused by a twisted gut.

Due to the prevalence and potential expense of colic — including loss of a horse — many owners choose to protect themselves from financial risk through insurance. But not all policies cover colic. 

“A standard Named Perils policy doesn’t cover colic,” say King. Named perils generally include death by wildfire, lightning, flood, transport, or being destroyed due to government legislation (such as for a positive Coggins test for equine infectious anemia). In contrast, a Full Mortality policy covers colic, plus Major Medical coverage can help with the cost of treating colic events. 

However, prevention is better than cure. Creating a healthy, horse-friendly lifestyle for your four-legged partner, which limits the stresses of travel and competition, can go a long way towards preventing a harrowing colic experience and the need for an insurance claim.