Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome: Welfare and Prevention

Gastric ulcer syndrome is among the most common and preventable welfare problems in domesticated horses, caused by management practices incompatible with equine digestive physiology.

Key Facts

Gastric ulcers affect an estimated 60-90% of performance horses and 40-60% of pleasure horses
The equine stomach produces acid continuously requiring the buffering effect of forage throughout the day
Meal feeding with long intervals between forage provision allows acid to pool in the non-glandular stomach
NSAIDs including phenylbutazone damage the glandular stomach mucosa contributing to ulceration
Stressful events including transport, competition, and dietary changes trigger cortisol-mediated acid secretion
Omeprazole (GastroGard) is the only FDA-approved treatment for equine gastric ulcers
Prevention through management is more effective and cost-efficient than treatment after ulcers develop
Behavioral signs of ulcers include girthiness, poor performance, altered temperament, and reduced feed intake

Welfare Considerations

Gastric ulcer syndrome represents one of the most widespread sources of preventable pain in domesticated horses. The burning pain of gastric ulceration causes measurable behavioral changes including reluctance to work, irritability, and reduced feed intake that significantly affect quality of life. The irony is that the primary cause is management practices incompatible with equine digestive physiology: restricted forage access, prolonged meal intervals, and stress from intensive training and competition schedules. Prevention through forage-based feeding management is both the most effective and most welfare-positive approach to this endemic problem.

What You Can Do

Provide continuous or near-continuous forage access to buffer gastric acid throughout the day
Avoid fasting horses for more than 3-4 hours particularly before exercise and transportation
Recognize behavioral signs of ulcers and pursue diagnosis with gastroscopy rather than assuming behavioral problems
Minimize unnecessary NSAID use and always provide with forage when administration is required
Use stress-reducing management strategies including companion animals and consistent routines during high-stress periods
Consider prophylactic omeprazole treatment during high-risk periods like competition seasons or transport