Short answer: the signs of stomach trouble in horses are vague, and only a veterinarian can confirm ulcers by gastroscopy. Feeding routine and stress management are the foundation. A complementary feed can be part of the ration, but it is not a treatment for gastric ulcers.
What are the signs of a sensitive stomach in a horse?
The Merck Veterinary Manual describes the signs in adult horses as subtle and nonspecific: mild colic, a poor appetite, mild weight loss, poor body condition and changes in attitude. Because the signs are so general, they can have many other causes, and a horse with abdominal pain needs a full veterinary workup, since ulcers are unlikely to be the only cause.
Why do some horses develop stomach problems?
A horse's stomach produces acid all the time, and acidity is highest between meals and during intense exercise. Merck lists these risk factors: performance work, a diet high in concentrates and low in forage, feeding in a few large meals, stall confinement compared with pasture, travel, social changes and illness. Ulcers are least common in horses turned out on pasture, and their prevalence and severity increase with the intensity of exertion. Merck also says the effect of different feeds on stomach acidity and ulcer formation has not been thoroughly studied.
What can I change in the feeding routine?
- Forage first. Build the ration around forage rather than concentrates, and avoid long periods in which the horse stands without anything to eat.
- Several smaller meals. Merck lists intermittent bolus feeding as a risk factor.
- Go easy on starch. Merck mentions low-starch grains and alfalfa hay, with its buffering protein and calcium, as supportive care alongside medication.
- Turnout. As much time outside as the horse can manage.
- Calm routines. Plan travel, stable changes and new companions with care, because stress is a listed risk factor.
How is a stomach ulcer diagnosed and treated?
Merck states that endoscopy is the only reliable method of diagnosis, because the signs and blood tests are not specific. Treatment aims to lower stomach acidity and is chosen by the veterinarian based on the horse's health and the severity of the lesions. Merck notes that lesions are unlikely to heal without medical treatment while the risk factors continue, so feeding changes support the treatment but do not replace it.
Where does a complementary feed fit?
Horse Tonic's PH is a powdered complementary feed for use as part of a balanced ration. It is not a treatment or prevention for gastric or intestinal ulcers. Suspected ulcers, pain, a change in appetite or lethargy need veterinary assessment. Compare the ingredient list and the feeding directions on the product page, and discuss any addition to the ration with your veterinarian or an equine nutritionist.
When should I call the veterinarian?
- Repeated mild colic, a poor appetite that lasts, or weight loss.
- A change in attitude or performance, together with eating less.
- Any sign of abdominal pain: call the same day.
- A foal with diarrhoea, teeth grinding, poor nursing or drooling: Merck says these foals need diagnosis and treatment immediately.
Sources
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Stomach (gastric) ulcers in horses, owner version
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Gastric ulcers in horses, veterinary version
This guide is general information and not veterinary advice.