Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome: Welfare in Performance Horses

Gastric ulcers affect the majority of performance horses and represent one of the most prevalent and welfare-significant health conditions in the equine industry.

Key Facts

Equine Squamous Gastric Disease (ESGD) affects up to 90% of racehorses and 60% of other performance horses
Horses evolved to graze continuously, producing acid constantly; intermittent feeding creates acid splash on the unprotected squamous mucosa
Pain from ulcers manifests as poor performance, reluctance to work, changed behavior, and girth sensitivity
Omeprazole treatment is effective but relapse is common when management factors causing ulcers are not addressed
Management changes including ad libitum forage, reduced cereal meals, and turnout access significantly reduce recurrence rates

Welfare Considerations

Gastric ulcers cause chronic pain that impairs horse welfare across millions of individuals in performance and pleasure industries. The prevalence reflects fundamental incompatibilities between modern management practices and equine digestive physiology. Horses kept in stables with restricted forage access, large grain meals, and limited turnout are at highest risk. Treatment without management reform leads to rapid relapse. The equine industry's tolerance for ulcers as a normal consequence of performance work represents a significant welfare failure.

What You Can Do

Provide horses with continuous access to forage to buffer stomach acid and reduce ulcer risk
Divide cereal-based feeds into small frequent meals rather than large single feeds
Investigate any behavioral changes or performance decline in horses for potential gastric ulcer contribution
Work with equine veterinarians to develop management plans that address ulcer root causes alongside treatment