The Symptoms of Ulcers in Horses

Stomach ulcers are a prevalent problem in horses, and they can greatly affect your horse’s performance. Although racehorses and horses in stressful, intense training were once thought to be those horses most greatly affected by ulcers, it is now thought that ulcers also frequently affect dressage horses. Ulcers are often attributed to changes in the feed, lifestyle and training that a horse is given.

  1. Changes in Attitude

    • According to an article from "Dressage Today" magazine posted on the EquiSearch website, a horse suffering from ulcers may become reluctant to work, upset or increasingly nervous. When being ridden she may not move as freely as she typically does.

    Changes in Eating Habits

    • A horse will sometimes prefer to eat his hay instead of his grain, and may leave portions of his meals unfinished. The Equine Performance Institute states that additionally, a horse may grind his teeth frequently, and you may notice that his salivation has increased.

    Changes in Physical State

    • Poor body condition and a lackluster coat are both signs of ulcers.

      The horse can suffer from frequent diarrhea and, when in intense pain, may spend more time lying on his side or back. As "Dressage Today" notes, frequent colic may also occur in which the horse suffers from mild pain. Ulcers often result in weight loss, leaving a horse with a poor body condition. This may also be demonstrated by a dull coat.