Horse Gastric Ulcer Prevention: Feeding and Management Strategies

Equine gastric ulcer syndrome is highly prevalent in performance horses and preventable through feeding and management strategies that reduce acid exposure.

Key Facts

Prevalence of gastric ulcers exceeds 90% in racehorses in active training
The equine stomach secretes acid continuously, unlike humans whose acid secretion is meal-triggered
Fasting periods exceeding 4-6 hours create acid accumulation that damages the squamous mucosa
High-grain, low-forage diets increase ulcer risk; ad libitum hay significantly reduces acid exposure
Omeprazole is effective for treatment, but environmental factors must be addressed to prevent recurrence

Welfare Considerations

Gastric ulcers cause chronic pain that affects behavior, temperament, and performance in ways owners often misinterpret as resistance or attitude problems. Prevention requires recognizing that the horse is a trickle feeder evolved for continuous grazing — management systems that impose long fasting periods are physiologically incompatible with gastric health. Ad libitum access to forage, minimizing grain feeding, reducing stress through social housing and appropriate exercise, and treating with omeprazole when indicated provide a comprehensive welfare approach.

What You Can Do

Provide continuous access to forage — hay nets, multiple piles, or grazing — to minimize fasting periods
Reduce concentrate feeding and use low-starch, high-fibre alternatives where possible
Scope horses showing behavioral changes, weight loss, or poor performance before assuming training issues
Use omeprazole at prescribed doses for the full treatment course — do not stop early when symptoms improve
Review management and feeding at the same time as treatment to prevent recurrence