Gastric ulcers in horses
Research has shown that more horses than expected suffer from gastric ulcers. That has an effect on their performance. If a horse cannot chew enough on fiber-rich roughage, too little saliva is produced. This is necessary for reducing the acidity in the stomach. Stress has an effect on the development of stomach ulcers. For sport horses traveling to competitions and staying in a strange environment enhances stress.
An overview of the symptoms and the risk factors:
Examination
It is impossible to see from the outside if a horse has gastric ulcers. This can only be done with a gastroscopy, a small camera at the end of a long hose that goes into the stomach. This examination can be done at home in the stable.
Make an appointment
If you suspect your horse to suffer from gastric ulcers, contact sportpaardenarts.nl using the form below. Examination can take place at the clinic or at home throughout the Netherlands.
Treatment
If gastric ulcers are found, treatment can be prescribed. The sort of treatment and the duration depends on the severity and location of the ulcers. They are usually easy to treat. However, the treatment will also include changes to the management, to prevent the ulcers from recurring.