What contributes to the pathophysiology of sand enterocolopathy?

The pathophysiology of sand enterocolopathy is primarily related to the consumption of large amounts of sand. In animals, especially horses, the ingestion of sand can lead to a condition where the sand accumulates in the gastrointestinal tract. This accumulation can cause irritation and inflammation in the intestinal lining, leading to various gastrointestinal dysfunctions.

When sand is ingested, it can create a physical blockage or impede normal intestinal motility, resulting in colic or other serious digestive issues. Additionally, the abrasive nature of sand can cause additional injury to the intestinal walls, leading to ulceration and potentially more severe complications.

The other choices, while related to dietary habits, do not directly contribute to sand enterocolopathy in the same manner. Excessive fiber might lead to other digestive issues or colic but doesn't relate to the direct accumulation of sand. Ingestion of toxic plants introduces a different set of pathophysiological responses, primarily due to the toxins involved, while a high protein diet may result in metabolic imbalances or other health issues but again lacks the direct connection to sand accumulation in the gut. Therefore, the key factor in the pathophysiology of sand enterocolopathy is indeed the significant ingestion of sand itself.