Horse Gastric Ulcers: Prevention Strategies in Performance Horses

Equine gastric ulcer syndrome is endemic in performance horses, with management practices being the primary driver of both disease development and prevention.

Key Facts

Equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS) affects 60-90% of performance horses in active training
The equine stomach secretes acid continuously, requiring buffering by saliva from constant chewing
Intermittent feeding schedules leave horses with unbuffered acid for hours, directly causing ulcers
Stabling without forage access for more than 6 hours significantly increases ulcer risk
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used for pain management can worsen gastric ulcers
Omeprazole is effective treatment, but management change is required to prevent recurrence

Welfare Considerations

Gastric ulcers cause genuine suffering — the burning pain of acid against ulcerated mucosa affects horse behavior, appetite, and performance. The condition is largely iatrogenic, caused by management practices that conflict with equine digestive physiology. Horses evolved to graze for 16+ hours daily; restricting forage for training schedules, stabling convenience, or weight management creates the conditions for ulceration. The welfare calculus is clear: continuous forage access, reduced training intensity during recovery, and minimizing NSAID use represent welfare improvements that also optimize performance outcomes.

What You Can Do

Ensure horses have continuous forage access — hay nets that slow consumption help maintain 24-hour intake
Never leave performance horses without forage for more than 4-6 hours
Work with your veterinarian to minimize NSAID use and monitor for ulcer signs during treatment
Consider gastroscopy for any horse showing reduced appetite, poor performance, or behavioral changes