Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome)

Here at TCEH we are lucky enough to have a gastroscope which is a 3 metre long endoscope able to reach down to the horse’s stomach. Studies have shown that 90% of racehorses in training suffer from stomach ulcers to some extent and they can also affect other types of performance horses too. Horses most at risk are those which spend long periods without access to food as they are designed to feed little and often. Other risk factors include high intensity exercise, illness, stress and some medications. Horses with Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome may show a variety of signs including weight loss, poor performance, recurrent colic, dullness or poor appetite. The gastroscope allows us to examine the lining of the stomach at the surgery to identify any ulcers present. Treatment for this condition comes in the form of oral medications alongside alterations to the management and feeding regime.

Please contact the surgery to discuss this condition further with one of the Vets if you think your horse may be affected. Please note in order for the stomach to be visualised the horse must be starved of food for 18 hours and water for 4 hours prior to the examination.