Stomach Ulcers in Horses
September 12, 2011
Stomach ulcers can be a hidden cause of poor performance in horses.
Learn the causes, signs and treatments of stomach ulcers, a common problem in horses.
According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, ulcerations have been found to affect 90 percent of racehorses. Their demanding conditioning routines and travel are just two sources of stress that can lead to ulcers.
The FREE Stomach Ulcers in Horses report dives deep into the issues of this condition that’s more common than you might think.
You’ll learn:
- Causes
- Signs
- Treatment
- Prevention
Horses are unique grazing animals as they only have one stomach compared to other grazing animals, or ruminants, which have four stomachs. The structure of the equine stomach is more sensitive, especially in the upper portion of the stomach, which is where most ulcers are found. The FREE Stomach Ulcers in Horses report explains the biology of the equine digestive tract and why it is more prone to ulcers than other species.
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Once you’ve grasped an understanding of the structure and function of the equine digestive system, learn more as Stomach Ulcers in Horses breaks down the different causes of ulcers, with most common causes resulting from management issues. Find out why common horse nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs or pain relievers), such as phenylbutanzone (bute) and banamine, can actually lead to stomach ulcers. Also learn about acidity levels in the stomach and how they play a role in creating ulcers.
Find expert advice and insight from two top veterinarians: Dr. Martin Ivey, who practices at Equine Sports Medicine and Surgery in Weatherford, Texas; and Dr. Brain Saathoff of Equine Sports Medicine in Cypress, California.
“In general, your more carbohydrate-loaded grains would probably tend to cause ulcers more than your non- or less-carbohydrate, more fibrous grains,” says Dr. Ivey.
Learn how to identify the signs of stomach ulcers in both horses and foals. Weight loss, poor condition, a long hair coat and change in appetite are just some of the common signs of possible ulcerations. But be aware; Many horses suffering from ulcers will not show any clinical signs if the ulcers are not severe enough. Develop an eye for these signs and others before its too late.
The FREE Stomach Ulcers in Horses report discusses practical treatment and prevention methods.
“Some horses, especially upper-level horses, are routinely given GastroGard medication as a preventive. But for other horses where cost might be an issue, we usually recommend scoping to be sure that we make the proper diagnosis and don’t unnecessarily use expensive medication,” Dr. Saathoff says.
Stomach Ulcers in Horses also informs you about research suggesting that horses who suffer from stomach ulcers will also be prone to further ulcers in the rest of the digestive tract. Read more about Dr. Franklin Pellegrini’s study, where he examined more than 200 horses.
“The reality is that the stomach is really just a small part of the digestive system as a whole,” Dr. Pellegrini says.
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12 Comments on “Stomach Ulcers in Horses”
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April 30th, 2009 at 8:00 am
[...] can result in physical problems. Your horse’s stress may lead to stomach ulcers. Download AQHA’s Stomach Ulcers in Horses FREE report to learn the signs and [...]
June 3rd, 2010 at 6:01 am
[...] the causes, signs and treatments of stomach ulcers, a common problem in horses with AQHA’s Stomach Ulcers in Horses FREE [...]
September 6th, 2010 at 4:50 pm
[...] don’t usually cause major health problems, although they can damage the lining of the stomach where they attach. They may also cause small areas of ulceration in the mouth, where the larvae [...]
September 30th, 2010 at 4:02 am
[...] Stomach ulcers can be a hidden cause of poor performance in horses. Learn the causes, signs and treatments of stomach ulcers, a common problem in horses. Check out AQHA’s FREE Stomach Ulcers in Horses report. [...]
November 16th, 2010 at 9:35 am
Dear Sirs!
Having run into this issue with colic /ulcers I like to read more and would be very pleased if I could get the report: Stomach ulcers in horses.
Mentioned above is non-or less carbohydrate – more fibrous grain would be better and I would really appreciate some brand names.
Alfalpha and or alfalpha/timothy better than grass?
Thank you,
Eira Gregard
January 22nd, 2011 at 8:24 pm
Hi
I have a Thoroughbred off the track and I suspected ulcers. He was very girthy, ( I had a saddle fitter come and check out my saddle and subsequently I purchased a new one). My second clue was whenever I cantered the horse out in the open field he would buck, I thought ‘Okay, feeling good – one buck but on two other occasions, no’.
I started him on amprazole for a period of time. I didn’t really notice a great change but I have since moved the horse to a new facility where they feed three times a day and he is no longer out with a herd, just one paddock buddy and these small management changes have in my opinion made a huge difference in his disposition.
Just some thoughts on what to maybe look for. I’ve not had him scoped but the symptoms have seemed to subsided. If they return, I will have to have further follow-up.
March 24th, 2011 at 7:46 am
[...] causes, signs and treatments of stomach ulcers, a common problem in horses. Download AQHA’s FREE Stomach Ulcers in Horses report, condition more common than you might [...]
March 24th, 2011 at 10:27 am
I have a very smart and want to please gelding. Except when it came to the arena. When I first started hauling him to barrel shows he was good – but as the summer went on he became uncoopritive and didn’t want to go in the gate. I was stupid to the Ulcer thing and made him go anyway. Then I find out that he has ulcers and started him on a probiotic and prebiotic in one and forage available to him 24-7 no matter what! He is a completely different horse now and he actually begs to go for a ride!
April 11th, 2011 at 3:00 pm
[...] Stomach Ulcers in Horses: Learn causes, symptoms and treatments of stomach ulcers, a common problem in horses. [...]
May 20th, 2011 at 8:53 am
[...] three horses started being treated on Saturday evening with fluids, with DMSO, Banamine, aspirin once a day, some vitamins – they suggested Vitamin E and omega 3 – and Valtrex, which [...]
November 9th, 2011 at 9:22 am
Aloe Vera gel is a highly effective treatment for gastric ulcers as well as throat infections and digestive disorders. Aloe is anti-inflammatory and contains Acemannan, a compound which stimulates immune system response. It’s gentle and soothing, and can be easily added to food as a supplement. For more info, visit: http://www.aloeplant.info/aloe-for-healthy-dogs-cats-and-horses/
April 14th, 2012 at 8:34 am
I have a saddle bred mare who exhibits all symptoms of stomach ulcers. However, she had the same characteristics long before I got her… Could it be that the stomach ulcers were existent then? or is it just her personality and breed that makes me believe they are the symptoms?
Any advice will be beneficial.
Thanks