Gastric Ulcers? - Horses Can Have Them

I remember one time a few years back when my friend Catherine asked me about ulcer problems in many horses. She was a beginner back then and I was not much of an expert; I got interested in horses just five years ago. She was puzzled at how her horse, Trinity, was not responding well when they were out for a ride, a year after she got her. I just told her to take Trinity to the vet, and so she did. It was later found out that the horse had ulcers. So what is it about this condition? Catherine thought ulcers only affect humans; apparently, it affects horses as well. For beginners, here is what you need to know.

Gastric ulcers in horses are apparently caused by different factors, among them include training, feeding practices, and the use of medications. Of course, no one would want to intentionally harm their horse but you tend to give him protection and pampering to make sure he is comfortable. What is likely to happen is that you keep him off the pasture to “protect” him from the exposure to parasites, without knowing that you are taking away his freedom to graze without restrictions. In addition, you add more grain to his feed because you assume that he needs more energy to do the work assigned to him. In this process of pampering and protecting your horse, you are actually contributing to certain health problems, most especially targeted on his gastrointestinal system.

If you find your horse does not respond well, has lost his appetite and consequently his weight, or starts to develop an irritable temperament, you need to do something about it – your horse might be in pain. You can take your horse to the vet and have him checked internally. Your horse may have developed a gastrointestinal problem, which caused all the changes in him – body and behavior.

Fortunately, ulcer problems in horses are easily treated. It takes omeprazole medications to treat the problem. Several brands are available but the question now lies on the cost of the product. Catherine was told that she needed to complete a month or so of treatment to completely heal Trinity’s ulcers. That would involve expensive medications, wouldn’t it? But you know how it goes; you learn secrets from your friend’s friend. They say blue pop rocks did the trick for their horses. Equine omeprazole comes in affordable prices making it easy for owners to take care of medication bills for their horses. For more information click here. So Catherine gave it a try, and it worked for her and allowed her to save money in the process. If it could work for her, it might for you. It is worth a try.

If you observe any changes of behavior and particularly how your horse reacts to everything normal, then something must be wrong. Be observant of your horse and try to “listen” to his needs.