What are common signs of colic in horses?

The signs of colic in horses are critical indicators of gastrointestinal distress. Pawing, sweating, and biting or kicking at the belly are particularly representative of colic because they reflect the horse's discomfort and pain. When a horse experiences colic, it often becomes restless as it tries to find relief from the discomfort. Pawing with the front hooves can signify agitation or pain, while sweating is a stress response that indicates the horse is in pain or distress. Additionally, the behavior of biting or kicking at the abdomen illustrates the horse's instinctive response to abdominal pain, as they may try to alleviate the discomfort by addressing the source of that pain.

Other options mention symptoms like restlessness and tail swishing, which can be associated with colic but are less specific and could also indicate other issues. Lethargy and lack of appetite are more general signs that could indicate various health problems and are not distinctive enough to diagnose colic specifically. Coughing and nasal discharge are typically associated with respiratory issues rather than gastrointestinal problems, making them irrelevant in the context of colic diagnosis.