Cold production in unconsolidated heavy oil reservoirs, where sand production is encouraged (CHOPS), has proven to be successful for vertical wells. However, the application of CHOPS to horizontal wells has been less profitable due mainly to excessive sand cleanout costs. Therefore, reducing sand cleanout costs by controlling sand production into horizontal wells while enhancing the surrounding permeability of the formation is an important factor in optimizing cold production from unconsolidated heavy oil reservoirs. This paper presents the results of an experimental investigation of the flow of oil and sand in the vicinity of a horizontal well under cold production. Specifically, the experiments physically simulated the flow of oil and sand into a slot in a horizontal well liner. The parameters studied include slot width and sand properties (morphology and grain size distribution). Experimental results suggest that sand production through horizontal well slots can be controlled, depending more on sand grain sorting than on grain morphology or average diameter. The sand cut had a tendency to be higher at the beginning of the sand production period and to decline with time. In most tests, the decline in sand cuts continued until no more sand was produced. Significant changes in the permeability and porosity were determined in the vicinity of the slot. The changes in the parameters were less significant away from the slot. The largest fractions of the sand (bigger than 500 mum) have an important role in arch/bridge formation.