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Gastric Ulcers

Domestic horses are prone to developing excess stomach acid which can lead to ulcer development. Rates of gastric ulcer occurrence have been recorded as high as 50% of pleasure horses and 90% of racehorses. Factors predisposing horses to ulcer formation include:

• Age – young horses are more ulcer prone

• Breed/Temperament – nervous or “hot blooded” horses are more likely to develop ulcers

• Performance/Training – horses at use have a higher incidence

• Feeding patterns

  • Episodic (stall feeding 2-3 times/day) fed horses have a higher incidence of ulcers than do horses which graze throughout the day.

  • Higher concentrate (grain) diets are associated with ulcer formation.

• Stress

  • Physical stresses such as systemic disease or painful musculoskeletal diseases are associated with ulcers

  • Behavioral stresses such as:

    • Stall confinement

    • Transportation

    • Changes to the environment or social group

• Medication – the NSAID class of anti-inflammatory drugs (Bute, Banamine) can decrease protective barriers in the stomach and facilitate ulcer formation.

• Exercise – increases in stomach acid have been noted following forced exercise such as training or performance.

Gastric ulcers may cause one or more of the following symptoms in the horse:

• Weight loss

• Recurrent colic

• Poor performance

• Irritable behavior

• Repetitive behaviors such as cribbing, weaving, and grinding of teeth

• Shifting or poorly identifiable lameness

• Poor hair coat

• Loss of appetite

Endoscopy (“scoping”) of stomach is the only definitive method for diagnosing and assessing the rate of healing of gastric ulcers. Endoscopy is recommended at the beginning and end of treatment. Endoscopy can also be a useful tool to assess ulcer risk in horses entering training, recovering from systemic disease, or undergoing convalescence following lameness or injury.

Ulcer treatment is aimed at managing risk factors and reducing acid levels in the stomach through the following methods:

1. Omeprazole paste. Omeprazole is the active ingredient in medicines such as Ulcergard and Gastrogard. Omeprazole blocks acid production in the stomach.

2. High roughage, low concentrate diet.

3. Pasture if possible. If pasture turnout is not an option, free feeding of grass hay, or small, frequent feedings may be advisable.

4. Minimizing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory use. Horses with ulcers should not be given Bute or Banamine without a veterinary recommendation.

5. Minimizing stress. Avoid changing stables or routines during the healing period. Avoid hauling on long trips if possible.

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