Companion Animal Welfare

Horse Gastric Ulcer Prevention Long-term

Equine gastric ulcer syndrome is endemic in performance horses and long-term prevention requires management changes alongside pharmaceutical control.

Key Facts

EGUS affects up to 90% of racehorses and 60% of performance horses in some studies
The proximal stomach (squamous region) lacks protective mucus and is highly vulnerable to acid
Continuous access to hay reduces acid splash damage during periods without food
Omeprazole suppresses acid but does not address underlying management causes
Rest from intense training allows healing even without medication in mild cases

Welfare Considerations

Gastric ulcers cause chronic abdominal pain that affects performance, behavior, and welfare in working horses. While pharmaceutical treatment is effective, addressing the management factors that cause ulcers creates lasting prevention rather than repeated treatment cycles.

What You Can Do

Maximize forage access to reduce acid splash damage in stabled horses
Discuss management changes alongside medication when treating gastric ulcers
Monitor for behavioral signs of recurrence when horses return to intense training