UK horse owners and veterinary practitioners' experiences of decision-making for critical cases of colic.

Background: The survival of horses diagnosed with critical colic (requiring referral or euthanasia) relies on rapid and effective decision-making by the owner and veterinary practitioner.

Objectives: To explore UK horse owners' and veterinary practitioners' experiences of decision-making for critical cases of equine colic.

Study Design: Qualitative study using a phenomenological approach.

Prospective case study of critical decision making for horses referred for treatment of colic.

Background: There is limited evidence on factors affecting critical decision making for horses with colic. This study's aim was to describe the assessment and decision making involved in horses referred for management of colic.

Methods: An in-depth case analysis was used to document case presentation, decision making and outcomes for horses referred for colic to two UK equine veterinary practices over a 12-month period.