Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome

Like humans, horses can also develop gastric, or stomach, ulcers. In fact, this condition may affect 60 percent of show horses and the vast majority -- 90 percent -- of racehorses, according to Dr. Beth Davis, DACVIM, an equine internist from Kansas State University. Prevention can be a challenge for these horses, but there are ways to combat this common equine medical problem.

  1. Understanding the Condition

    • The stomach releases acids to aid in the digestion of food. Normally, the organ is able to protect itself from the effects of these powerful secretions. When these protective mechanisms don't work, however, horses can develop ulcers. This means that erosion has occurred in the stomach's lining, or mucosa. In humans, this condition is typically caused by bacteria known as H. pylori, but no such infectious agent has been indicated in equine gastric ulcer syndrome. Stress, diet and use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are all possible culprits in the development of ulcers.

    Signs &Symptoms

    • It can be difficult to assess whether a horse has this condition, particularly in the early stages, as they may not present with any signs. Some to be on the lookout for include appetite loss, changes in behavior, an unhealthy appearance and reduced physical ability. As the ulcers get worse, the horse may grind its teeth or drool excessively. Colic may also develop, which refers to abdominal pain in horses. Gastroscopy, which involves inserting a camera into the stomach, is the only way to know for sure if a horse has the condition.

    Drug Treatment

    • Veterinary treatment for equine gastric ulcers is available. Drugs work to reduce the amount of acid in the stomach in multiple ways. Some, such as proton pump inhibitors, work by reducing gastric acid production. Others prevent the acid from penetrating the stomach's lining; however, these may not be the best options for most adult horses. These medications treat ulcers of the glandular mucosa while most adults have ulcers in the squamous mucosa, according to the Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine. Antacids are an option as well, but these only provide temporary relief.

    Lifestyle Changes

    • Regardless of drug therapy, ulcer healing requires reduction or elimination of the factors leading to the condition to begin with. Horses should have access to hay or grass at all times to help neutralize gastric acid. The American Association of Equine Practitioners also recommends reducing reliance on high-grain feeds because they produce fatty acids that contribute to ulcers. Stressors should be reduced as much as possible, especially being stalled for prolonged periods which prevents socialization with other horses and contributes to boredom.