Understanding Gastric Ulcers in Horses
Gastric ulcers are a common concern among horses and ponies of all ages and disciplines. They occur when the protective lining of the stomach is affected, which can sometimes lead to discomfort. Understanding how ulcers develop and recognising the signs is important for promoting overall digestive wellbeing.
Causes of Gastric Ulcers
Several factors can contribute to the development of gastric ulcers in horses:
- Stress and Vagus Nerve Stimulation – Stress can affect stomach acid production and digestive function.
- Restricted Access to Forage – Horses are natural grazers, designed to eat small amounts of roughage throughout the day. Limited forage or long gaps between meals can allow acid to build up in the stomach.
- High-Concentrate Diets – Diets high in grains or concentrates may affect the natural balance of the digestive system.
- Environmental and Management Stressors – Travel, stabling, and competition can influence digestion and gut activity.
Recognising the Signs
Gastric ulcers can be difficult to detect. Some possible signs include:
- Unusual behaviours such as wind-sucking, crib-biting, or weaving
- Irritability or resistance when girthing or being handled
- Changes in appetite or feeding behaviour
- Weight loss or changes in body condition
- Reduced performance or reluctance to work
Diagnosis and Grading
A veterinary examination is the only way to confirm the presence of gastric ulcers. An endoscopic examination (gastroscopy) allows a flexible camera to view the stomach lining.
Ulcers are commonly graded on a scale from 1 to 4:
- Grade 1: Mild irritation of the stomach lining
- Grade 2–3: Increasing severity with deeper lesions
- Grade 4: Extensive ulceration affecting larger areas of the stomach lining
This grading is used for veterinary assessment and to understand the extent of the condition.
Supporting Digestive Health
The stomach has natural protective mechanisms that help maintain a healthy digestive environment. For example, the lining produces mucus, which acts as a barrier to stomach acid and helps protect the underlying tissue. Understanding and supporting these natural processes can contribute to overall digestive wellbeing.
Management practices that may support digestive comfort include:
- Feeding and Forage Access – Frequent small meals or ad-lib forage can help maintain a stable stomach environment and support natural digestive processes.
- Diet Composition – Gradual introduction of feed changes and careful management of starch and concentrates may help maintain digestive balance.
- Stress Management – Minimising environmental and social stressors can support normal digestive function and gut health.
- Nutritional Supplements – Some owners include supplements, such as Peptonil, which are formulated to support digestive comfort and contribute to maintaining a balanced digestive environment. These are intended as part of overall management, not as treatment for ulcers.
By understanding how the stomach functions and adopting supportive management strategies, horse owners can promote overall digestive wellbeing and comfort.
Long-Term Prevention
- Provide frequent small meals or ad-lib forage
- Minimise stress and maintain consistent routines
- Ensure adequate turnout and social interaction
- Introduce diet changes gradually and avoid excessive starch
Conclusion
By understanding the causes and signs of gastric ulcers, and supporting your horse’s digestive wellbeing through good feeding practices, stress management, and overall care, owners can help promote comfort and a healthy digestive system. Early recognition of potential issues and appropriate veterinary guidance are key to maintaining overall health and supporting optimal performance.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian regarding any concerns about your horse’s health, diet, or digestive wellbeing. The mention of nutritional supplements, such as Peptonil, is for informational purposes only and does not imply treatment, prevention, or cure of gastric ulcers or any other condition.