Stomach Ulcer in Horses: A Guide to Treatment

In horses, ulcers are a very common condition, especially in newborn foals. Poor physical condition, poor appetite, weight loss, and behavioral changes are a few of the non-specific signs of gastric ulcers in horses.

There are many different symptoms associated with horse ulcers, and they can go unnoticed for a long time. It is not unusual for horses to survive their entire lives without receiving the correct diagnosis or care. More than half of horses saddled for pleasure and sport encounter horse ulcers.


How do stomach ulcers in horses develop? 


Gastric ulcers in horses are caused by the overproduction of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, which irritates the digestive tract's walls, leading to ulcers in the inflamed areas, where the stomach's protective lining is destroyed, and ulcers form.

 

Additionally, the formation of gastric acid lowers the pH of the gastrointestinal tract, increasing the acidity of the surrounding environment.


The following are some common symptoms of ulcers in horses:

  • Loss of weight

  • Decreased appetite

  • terrible performance

  • Poor attitude and irritability

  • Diarrhea

  • Tooth gnashing

  • Abdominal discomfort


The different types of equine stomach ulcers

In horses, ulcers can occur in several locations in the stomach. Generalization of stomach ulcers is commonly known as Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS). Specific regions and terms are the upper stomachs (non-glandular) also referred to as squamous ulcers and the lower stomach, known as glandular ulcers. Signs of ulcers in horses for both types of stomach ulcers are similar.


How are Glandular and Squamous ulcers treated?

The most effective way to heal stomach ulcers is with an equine-specific form of omeprazole, given at a body weight-appropriate dose for a period of time sufficient for the severity of the case. Squamous ulcers can take up to 28 days. At the same time, subtle changes should be made to feeding and management to limit gastric acid production and the mobility of acid within the stomach.

 

Glandular ulcers require both omeprazole and sucralfate for up to 56 days. Sucralfate is used concurrently to assist the healing and pain of existing ulcers by creating a protective coating on the surface of the ulcer. 

 

 


 


Keeping Horse Ulcers at bay!


Studies show that 90% of horses will experience gastric ulcers. That ought to serve as a reminder to all equestrian enthusiasts of the value of awareness. Daily observation and evaluation of your horse's feeding routine and general physical condition are crucial.


There are some things you can do to help protect your horse from ulcers.

 

  • Keep forage in front of your horse at all times – “trickle feed”

  • Feed alfalfa hay before riding as it has a protective effect on the stomach, due to its high calcium content

  • Limit stress and reduce strenuous exercise to 5days per week

  • Limit grain – concentrated grains tend to provoke ulcers

  • Provide continuous access to fresh, clean water 24hrs a day.

  • Consider using probiotics to improve digestion


Where to buy horse ulcer treatment

Since 2008 Abler has provided affordable horse ulcer treatment to horse owners worldwide. Omeprazole ulcer treatment is available in three forms: tablets, easy to feed granules and syringe of paste, with sucralfate medication available as granules.

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