Gastroscopic examination for equine gastric ulcer syndrome is the definitive diagnostic tool, with treatment decisions and welfare outcomes significantly improved by accurate diagnosis.
Accurate gastroscopic diagnosis serves horse welfare by directing treatment appropriately. Horses with glandular disease require different management than those with squamous lesions, and horses without ulcers need investigation of other pain sources. Empirical treatment without diagnosis may miss the true cause of pain and delay appropriate welfare intervention. As gastroscopy becomes more widely available, its use in investigating behavioral pain signals is becoming standard of care.