Ask the Vet: Equine gastric ulcer syndrome
Ever wonder why your horse suddenly goes off feed but does not have any other signs of colic? Or why are they recently becoming reactive and sensitive when you cinch up the saddle to ride? It could be due to Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome or EUGS. EUGS is a term used to describe ulcerative and erosive diseases within the stomach of a horse. It is said that equine ulcers are a man-made disease and, depending on the discipline of the horse, can affect up to 90%.
Causes There are many known causes of equine ulcers. One of the most common causes is stress. This can be environmental stress, but it can also include physical stress. We often ask horses to perform for us unnaturally. Things that are known stressors for horses are shows, rodeos, hauling, long-term NSAIDs use, food deprivation, training, and mixing groups of horses without a proper introduction. Strenuous exercise is one of the number one causes, which is why racehorses have the highest prevalence of EGUS.
The Stomach of Horses The equine stomach is complex, with two different types of tissue within the stomach. There is a glandular, and a non-glandular section with a large demarcation in between called the margo plicatus. Both sections can be affected by ulceration; however, foals are more likely to develop ulcers in the non-glandular region, and adult horses over two years of age are more likely to develop ulceration in the glandular area, where the hydrochloric acid and pepsin are secreted.
Clinical Signs Clinical signs often include poor appetite, diarrhea, excessive salivation, decreased performance, rough hair coat, laying down frequently, dullness or grumpy attitude, and reluctance to move out or train.
Diagnosis The diagnosis of EGUS is made oftentimes based on clinical signs but confirmed by your veterinarian after an endoscopic exam of the gut. There is currently a stable side test that can help determine if gastric ulcers are in the fore or hindgut of your horse. This must be obtained through your veterinarian.
Treatment Stopping gastric acid production to heal gastric mucosa has been the mainstay in treating equine ulcers. Treatment options are becoming better or more successful at the full resolution of EGUS. Treatment should be a specialized plan for your animal, made with your veterinarian after determining if your animal has active foregut, hindgut, or both gastric ulceration.
“Ask the Vet” is a monthly column written by local veterinarians, including Colin Chaves of Covington Creek Veterinary, Karen Novak of Mendocino Village Veterinary, and Kendall Willson of Mendocino Equine and Livestock. Past articles can be found on the Advocate-News and Beacon websites by searching “Ask the Vet.”