06/02/2026
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The demands of training and competition can put performance horses at risk for gastric ulcers. Help reduce that risk by providing consistent forage, maximizing turnout, minimizing stress, and working with your veterinarian to monitor your horse's digestive health.
Did you know? Grayson is currently funding two research projects at The University of Queensland focused on equine gastric ulcers, helping advance better prevention, diagnosis, and treatment options for horses everywhere.
The Effect Of Feed On Gastric PH In The Exercising Horse: https://bit.ly/43LmzPa
Is Gastric Hyperacidity Significant In Horses?: https://bit.ly/4vnoy8b
Healthy horses start with research. 💙
HOW AND WHY DO HORSES GET ULCERS?
Equine gastric ulcers can affect any horse of any age. Up to 90% of racehorses and 60% of show horses, as well as non-performance horses and even foals are affected by equine gastric ulcers. Gastric ulcers result from the erosion of the stomach lining due to a prolonged exposure to the normal acid present in the stomach.
Unlike ulcers in humans, bacteria do not appear to cause equine gastric ulcers. Instead, this condition is often a man-made disease. Stall confinement alone can lead to the development of ulcers. A horse’s feeding schedule and high-grain diets can also contribute to the development of ulcers.
Stress, both environmental and physical, can increase the likelihood of ulcers, as can hauling, training, and mixing groups of horses. Strenuous exercise can decrease the emptying of the stomach as well as the blood flow, thus further contributing to the problem.
The treatment and prevention of gastric ulcers is directed at removing these predisposing factors, therefore decreasing acid production within the horse’s stomach. Prevention of ulcers is the key in helping your horse, as neutralizing the production of stomach acid is nature’s best antacid.
Please note that the only way to definitively diagnose ulcers is through a gastroscopy. An equine veterinarian should always be consulted in any case of suspected gastric ulcers to determine the best course of action and treatment for the individual horse.