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We are preparing our information about Colic, including what owners may notice, practical management, when professional or veterinary advice may be needed, and relevant support.
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Can horses get ulcers?
Yes. Horses can develop stomach ulcers, and they are surprisingly common.
Equine gastric ulcers occur when the lining of the stomach becomes damaged by stomach acid. They can affect horses of any age, from foals to veterans, although they are most commonly seen in performance horses, horses in regular training, and those experiencing stress or changes in management.
Common risk factors include:
- Long periods without forage.
- High-concentrate, low-fibre diets.
- Intense exercise or training.
- Stress, travel, or frequent competitions.
- Illness or pain.
- Prolonged use of certain medications, such as some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Signs of gastric ulcers can vary and may include:
- Reduced appetite or leaving part of a feed.
- Weight loss or difficulty maintaining condition.
- Poor performance or reluctance to work.
- Changes in behaviour, such as irritability or sensitivity when being groomed around the girth area.
- Mild, recurrent colic.
- Dull coat or generally looking below par.
Not every horse with ulcers shows obvious signs, and some horses with these signs may have a different underlying problem. The only reliable way to diagnose stomach ulcers is by gastroscopy, where a veterinary surgeon passes a small camera into the stomach to examine its lining. This allows ulcers to be confirmed and appropriate treatment to be recommended.
Providing plenty of forage, reducing long periods without food, minimising unnecessary stress where possible, and feeding a balanced diet can all help support stomach health.
Many owners find digestive supplements useful as part of their horse’s routine management, particularly during periods of increased stress or workload.