Ulcer risk?

s an astute horse owner, you are no doubt aware of the risk of equine

gastric ulcer syndrome. Studies show that up to 90 percent of

certain equine populations have gastric lesions caused when

digestive acids damage the lining of the stomach.

Ulcers can cause a horse to lose weight, colic inter-

mittently and develop a grumpy or fussy attitude. However, some horses with

ulcers soldier on, showing no significant signs of discomfort.

Which gives rise to a more specific concern: Could your horse, the one

you work hard to care for each day, have gastric ulcers? The only way to know

for sure would be an endoscopic examination, which would be unnecessarily

intrusive if the horse isn’t showing any outward signs of trouble. But you can

also estimate his risk---the likelihood he has ulcers or will develop them---by

considering some specific questions about his management. With honest answers

you can make informed decisions regarding any diagnostic or treatment efforts

your horse may need.

The following five-question survey will help you determine an individual

horse’s ulcer risk and explain how that risk is influenced by various lifestyle

and management factors. Answer each question, then tally up your final score.