Ulcer Prevention 101: Feeding, Turnout & Stress Strategies Every Rider Should Know

Why Ulcers Are So Common in Performance Horses

Gastric ulcers are one of the most widespread health issues in horses, especially those in training or competition. Studies show that up to 90% of performance horses experience some form of Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS). Why? Because their natural digestive system is designed for constant grazing, not the stop-start feeding patterns we often impose.

When horses go for long periods without forage, stomach acid continues to flow, irritating the stomach lining. Add stress, travel, and high-energy feeds, and you have the perfect storm for ulcers.

Squamous vs Glandular Ulcers: Know the Difference

Before we dive into prevention, it’s important to understand the two main types:

• Squamous ulcers occur in the upper part of the stomach, often caused by acid splash during exercise and long fasting periods.

• Glandular ulcers affect the lower stomach, linked to stress and reduced blood flow to the stomach lining.

Both can cause discomfort, poor performance, and behavioural changes—but they require slightly different management strategies.

Feeding Strategies That Work

The golden rule: Forage first, always. Horses are trickle feeders, and their stomach produces acid 24/7. Here’s how to keep that acid in check:

✅ Provide constant access to hay or pasture: If turnout isn’t possible, use slow-feed hay nets to mimic grazing.

✅ Feed small, frequent meals: Avoid long gaps between feeds—especially before exercise or travel.

✅ Add lucerne/alfalfa before work: Lucerne/alfalfa hay acts as a natural buffer against stomach acid.

✅ Limit high-starch feeds: Grains and sweet feeds increase acid production. Opt for fibre-based feeds instead.

✅ Offer water at all times: Dehydration can worsen ulcer risk and slow digestion.

Turnout & Stress Reduction

Stress is a major ulcer trigger. Horses thrive on routine and social interaction. Here’s what helps:

✅ Maximise turnout: Even short periods outside reduce stress and promote gut health.

✅ Provide companionship: Horses are herd animals—visual contact with other horses matters.

✅ Keep routines consistent: Sudden changes in feeding, training, or environment can spike stress levels.

✅ Travel smart: Plan rest stops, offer hay during trips, and avoid rushing loading/unloading.

Supplements & Veterinary Care

While management is key, supplements can support gut health:

• Buffering agents (e.g., calcium-based products)

• Probiotics and prebiotics for digestive balance

• Veterinary-prescribed omeprazole for diagnosed ulcers (never self-medicate)

Always consult your vet before starting any supplement or medication.

Signs Your Horse Might Have Ulcers

Watch for these red flags:

• Poor appetite or picky eating

• Weight loss despite good feeding

• Girthiness or resistance under saddle

• Behaviour changes (irritability, reluctance to go forward)

• Mild colic episodes

If you suspect ulcers, don’t guess—scope. A gastroscopy is the only way to confirm and grade ulcers. Just note that scoping cannot check the hindgut for ulcers so, please ensure your veterinarian works on a solution even if no ulcers are found in the foregut and/or stomach regions.

The Bottom Line

Ulcer prevention isn’t complicated—it’s about respecting the horse’s natural needs. Forage first, reduce stress, and keep routines steady. These small changes can make a big difference in your horse’s health and happiness.