What Should You Not Feed a Horse With Ulcers?

Equine gastric ulcers are common but often overlooked, significantly affecting a horse’s health, performance, and well-being. One of the most critical aspects of managing gastric ulcers is diet. Feeding the wrong foods can worsen symptoms and delay healing, while the proper diet can support recovery. In this blog post, we’ll explore what not to feed a horse with ulcers and the best foods and treatments to help your horse heal.

How and Why Equine Gastric Ulcers Form

  

Equine gastric ulcers, also known as Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS), form when the lining of the horse’s stomach is eroded by gastric acid. Horses produce stomach acid continuously, even when they are not eating. When the stomach is empty, the acid can irritate the unprotected upper portion of the stomach, leading to ulcers. Factors such as stress, intense exercise, infrequent feeding, and certain medications can increase the risk of ulcers. Additionally, diets high in starchy grains such as corn and low in forage can disrupt the natural buffering effect of saliva, which is produced during chewing and helps neutralise stomach acid.

Foods That Exacerbate Symptoms of Ulcers

  

When managing a horse with gastric ulcers, avoiding foods that can worsen the condition is essential. High-starch and high-sugar feeds, such as grains, corn, and sweet feeds, should be eliminated. These feeds can increase acid production and reduce the stomach’s pH, further irritating the ulcerated areas. Avoid infrequent large meals, which leave the stomach empty and allow acid buildup.

The Best Foods to Feed a Horse With Ulcers

 

An ulcer-friendly diet should include frequent access to high-quality forage like hay or grass. Forage encourages chewing, which stimulates saliva production and helps neutralise stomach acid. Alfalfa hay, in particular, is an excellent choice because it is high in calcium and protein, which have natural acid-neutralising properties.

 

Consider low-starch, high-fat feeds such as rice bran or soaked beet pulp if your horse needs additional calories. These are easier on the stomach and less likely to trigger acid production. Small, frequent meals are also key to keeping the stomach full and reducing acid exposure. Always ensure your horse has access to clean, fresh water, as dehydration can worsen ulcer symptoms.

The Best Treatment for Equine Ulcers

  

While diet is critical in managing gastric ulcers, veterinary treatment is also necessary to promote healing. The two most commonly prescribed treatments are omeprazole and sucralfate.

  • AbPrazole (Omeprazole): This is the gold standard for treating equine gastric ulcers. It works by suppressing acid production in the stomach, allowing the ulcerated tissue to heal. Omeprazole is available in paste and granule forms and is typically administered daily for several weeks.
  • AbSucralfate (Sucralfate): This medication forms a protective barrier over the ulcer, shielding it from further acid damage and promoting healing. Best used alongside omeprazole.

 

Abler’s goal is to help your horse recover from ulcers through a practical approach. By adhering to the prescribed course and following the best practice guidelines, equine ulcers can be treated effectively to improve their health, comfort, and performance.