Think you know the signs of gastric ulcers in horses? Whether you’re managing a picky eater, prepping a performance horse for show season, or simply want to improve your feeding routine, understanding equine gut health is key to long-term wellness.
Take our five-question Gut Check Challenge to see how much you really know about equine ulcers, appetite triggers, and feeding strategies. Then scroll down f or detailed answers and expert-backed explanations to help you care for your horse with confidence.
Ready to test your gut instincts?
1. True or False:
Behavior changes, like girthiness or moodiness, are always reliable signs of gastric ulcers.
2. What percentage of horses will develop gastric ulcers at some point?
A. 10%
B. 25%
C. 50% or more
D. 90%
3. Which feeding habit helps prevent gastric ulcers?
A. Two large meals per day
B. Free-choice access to forage
C. Frequent use of NSAIDs
D. More grain, less hay
4. True or False:
A fecal test is the most accurate way to diagnose gastric ulcers.
5. What’s the most effective combination for treating and managing gastric ulcers in horses?
A. Increased grain and stall rest
B. Fecal testing and probiotics
C. Omeprazole plus management changes
D. Feeding more roughage and adding appetite stimulants
Check Your Answers
1. False
While girthiness, moodiness, and poor performance are commonly blamed on ulcers, they’re non-specific and could be caused by many other factors—like saddle fit, training stress, or even dental issues. A definitive ulcer diagnosis requires a gastroscopy.
2. C. 50% or more
Ulcers are incredibly common, especially in performance horses exposed to stress, stall time, and travel. Studies show that over 50% of horses will develop ulcers during their lifetime.
3. B. Free-choice access to forage
Horses naturally graze throughout the day, which keeps stomach acid buffered. Continuous access to hay or pasture helps reduce acid buildup and supports gut health—especially in horses prone to ulcers.
4. False
A fecal test cannot accurately diagnose gastric ulcers. In fact, it can result in false positives due to other issues like colitis. The only reliable diagnostic tool is a gastroscopy, where a vet uses a camera to examine the stomach lining.
5. C. Omeprazole plus management changes
The most effective approach to healing gastric ulcers includes using omeprazole treatment (prescribed by a vet) along with feeding and lifestyle changes—such as increasing forage, reducing stress, limiting NSAID use, and offering frequent meals. This combined strategy addresses both the cause and symptoms of ulcers for long-term gut health.
