Understanding Gastric Ulcers in Horses: Management and Nutrition
Gastric ulcers are a common concern in horses, particularly those involved in training and competition. These ulcers can influence a horse’s comfort, behaviour, and overall condition, which is why many owners focus on management strategies to reduce risk.
While veterinary diagnosis and treatment are essential when ulcers are suspected, management practices, particularly feeding and nutrition, can play an important role in supporting digestive health.
What Are Equine Gastric Ulcers?
Equine Squamous Gastric Ulcer Disease (ESGD) affects a large proportion of performance horses.
The condition occurs when acidic gastric fluid comes into contact with the upper portion of the stomach, known as the squamous mucosa. During exercise or when horses go for long periods without forage, stomach contents may move within the stomach, increasing the likelihood of irritation to this area.
Horses experiencing gastric discomfort may show signs such as:
reduced appetite
weight loss
changes in behaviour
sensitivity around the girth area
reduced willingness to work
Because these symptoms can overlap with many other conditions, veterinary examination is important for proper diagnosis.
The Importance of Foundational Nutrition
Before considering supplements, it is essential that a horse’s basic nutritional requirements are being met.
A well-balanced diet that provides adequate forage, energy, vitamins, and minerals is the foundation of digestive health.
Management strategies commonly recommended for horses prone to gastric irritation include:
consistent access to forage
reducing long periods without feed
feeding fibre before exercise
limiting excessive starch intake
maintaining consistent feeding routines
These approaches help support normal digestive function and overall wellbeing.
Nutrition and Digestive Health
Feeding programs for horses prone to gastric sensitivity often emphasise high-fibre, low-starch diets.
Fibre plays an important role in supporting digestive function and helps maintain a more stable environment within the stomach.
Balanced nutrition can also help support overall condition, energy levels, and recovery following work.
Exploring Nutritional Ingredients
Horse owners often explore various nutritional ingredients as part of their feeding programs.
Because of its unique composition, bovine colostrum has attracted interest in animal nutrition research.
Colostrum is the first milk produced by cows after calving and contains a wide range of naturally occurring compounds including:
immunoglobulins
proteins and peptides
growth factors
vitamins and minerals
Researchers have explored these components in relation to digestive physiology and immune function in both human and animal studies.
Choosing Quality Supplements
When selecting any supplement, it is important to consider:
ingredient quality
processing methods
transparency of testing
sourcing and traceability
Products made from whole bovine colostrum with verified IgG levels can provide greater confidence in the consistency of the ingredient.
Statera Bio-Colostrum is sourced from Australian dairy farms and undergoes quality testing to verify its composition.
Supporting Digestive Health Through Management
Supporting horses prone to gastric irritation often involves a holistic approach, including:
veterinary guidance
appropriate feeding management
consistent forage intake
balanced nutrition
Working with an equine nutritionist can help ensure your horse’s feeding program is tailored to their individual needs.
Conclusion
Gastric ulcers are a common challenge for many horses, particularly those involved in regular training. While veterinary care is essential when ulcers are suspected, thoughtful management and balanced nutrition can play an important role in supporting digestive health.
Because of its complex nutritional composition, bovine colostrum continues to be studied in animal nutrition, and some horse owners choose to include it as part of their horse’s feeding routine.
Disclaimer
This article is provided for educational purposes only and does not replace veterinary advice. Statera Bio-Colostrum is a nutritional supplement for horses and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease.
