Gastric Assessment Info Page

Happy Guts, Happy Horses: Tackling Gastric Woes in Your Equine Companion!

Owning a horse is all fun and games until their digestive system starts calling the shots. If you’ve ever dealt with a grumpy gelding or a mare with more attitude than usual, gastric issues might be to blame. Let’s dive into the common culprits of equine gastric illnesses and how to restore your horse’s gut health with the right treatments, supplements, and a dash of TLC.


Gastric Illness

  1. Ulcers: Hands down, the diva of equine gastric issues. Stress from training, travel, or limited forage time can cause ulcers. Your horse’s stomach is naturally acidic, so long periods without hay are like hosting a barbecue in their belly—but without the fun.

  2. Colic: The word no horse owner wants to hear. Whether it’s gas, impaction, or spasmodic colic, this condition sends horses (and their owners) spiraling into discomfort.

  3. Gastric Reflux Syndrome (GRS): Horses with GRS often have underlying motility issues, leading to an unhappy tummy and an even unhappier horse.

  4. Dietary Indiscretions: Let’s face it—some horses think they’re goats. Consuming inappropriate feed or suddenly switching their diet can wreak havoc on their digestive system.


Treatments and Preventive Measures

Here’s where we saddle up for solutions! Addressing gastric issues involves medication, supplements, and management changes to keep your horse’s stomach singing (and not screaming).

  1. Ulcer Medications:

    • Omeprazole: The gold standard for treating and preventing gastric ulcers. Consider UlcerGard or GastroGard to help heal your horse’s stomach lining and reduce acid production.

    • Ranitidine: A cost-effective alternative for mild cases.

  2. Supportive Supplements:

    • Succeed Digestive Conditioning Program: A fan favorite for horses with recurring gut issues.

    • EquiShure: Perfect for horses prone to hindgut acidosis, this supplement keeps the pH levels balanced.

    • GastroEase EQ: Combines prebiotics, probiotics, and soothing agents for total gut support.

  3. Colic Prevention:

    • Encourage frequent small meals to keep their digestive system moving.

    • Try ProBios Equine Oral Gel for times of dietary stress, like travel or competition.

  4. Dietary Balance:

    • Free-choice forage (hay or pasture) is non-negotiable. Your horse’s stomach is designed to graze, not starve.

    • Consider adding a slow-feed hay net to extend meal time and reduce stress.