It's increasingly common to hear: 'My horse likely has gastric ulcers.' While stress was once primarily associated with humans, it now appears that every performance horse (and even pleasure horses and foals) can be affected. Recent research has also demonstrated that up to 90% of sport horses in training can develop gastric ulcers.
And truthfully, this isn't a surprising notion. The equine digestive system is adapted for continuous grazing, characterized by calm, continuous foraging, high fiber intake, and minimal acute stress or intense training peaks. In practice, however, we often demand the exact opposite: reduced grazing, increased environmental stimuli, scheduled feeding times, intensive training, and frequent transport.
Gastric ulcers are, therefore, not merely a 'stomach problem.' They impact welfare, behavior, and performance. Fortunately, with appropriate knowledge and a clear management plan, significant improvements can be achieved.
To fully comprehend the etiology and pathogenesis of gastric ulcers, it is crucial to recognize that the anatomy and physiology of the equine gastrointestinal tract differ significantly from those of humans and large omnivores or carnivores. Relative to its body weight, a horse possesses a comparatively small stomach. For instance, a 500 kg horse has a gastric capacity of approximately 15 liters, whereas a 190 kg lion also has a stomach capacity of 12-15 kg.
The equine stomach primarily functions as a conduit to the small intestine, rather than a reservoir for large meals. It is adapted for the near-continuous processing of small quantities of forage throughout the day. In contrast, the stomachs of predators are designed to process large volumes of food in a single intake.
Given that the equine stomach is designed for the continuous processing of small quantities of forage, it produces gastric acid throughout the entire day. In many omnivores and carnivores (including humans), gastric acid secretion is initiated only upon the presence of food in the stomach. This is not the case in horses.
Furthermore, unlike many other animal species, the equine stomach comprises two distinctly different zones:
The upper squamous (non-glandular) region of the stomach is composed of a softer, more vulnerable mucosal lining. This region is where the initial digestion of primarily starches and sugars occurs. This delicate mucosa offers less protection against gastric acid.
The lower glandular region is responsible for producing gastric acid and other digestive enzymes. This region is covered by a protective mucous layer and is specifically adapted to withstand an acidic environment. While the pH in this region is low (acidic), adequate protective mechanisms are present under normal physiological conditions.
Gastric acid is not the enemy. Gastric acid, in conjunction with other digestive enzymes, facilitates food digestion, ensures mineral conversion for absorption, and acts as a crucial barrier against undesirable bacteria entering the small intestine. Therefore, the permanent "neutralization" of the stomach is not advisable. While short-term buffering can alleviate irritation and pain, chronic and continuous buffering can disrupt the stomach's natural physiological function.
In addition to mucus and buffering, another substance plays a pivotal role in gastric mucosal protection: prostaglandins. These signaling molecules effectively constitute the "control center" for gastric protection. Prostaglandins fulfill three crucial functions:
This is particularly significant because the equine stomach (unlike the human stomach) produces acid 24 hours a day. There is no "on/off" switch for acid production. Consequently, prostaglandins are indispensable as they maintain a continuous equilibrium between acid production and mucosal protection. Insufficient prostaglandin activity can rapidly disrupt this balance, thereby increasing the susceptibility to gastric ulcers. This underscores the critical importance of forage: a well-balanced ration with adequate fiber indirectly supports healthy prostaglandin function and, consequently, the stomach's natural protective system.
EGUS is the umbrella term for equine gastric ulcers. Ulcers can manifest in various locations within the stomach, differing in their etiology and management.
Broadly, two primary types of gastric issues are recognized:
The fundamental principle is straightforward: horses continuously secrete gastric acid. Protection is primarily afforded through two mechanisms: gastric fiber content and saliva production.
When consuming forage, horses engage in prolonged and extensive mastication. This stimulates saliva production, which contains buffering agents (e.g., sodium bicarbonate). Moreover, forage has a longer gastric retention time compared to concentrates, thereby providing a sustained "mass" within the stomach that helps to buffer and stabilize the acidic milieu. This mechanism is particularly advantageous for a stomach that continuously produces acid.
Stress serves as a significant trigger. This encompasses not only "mental" stress but also physiological stress induced by intensive training, transportation, and disruptions to routine.
During exertion, gastric dynamics are also altered. Under normal conditions, the level of gastric contents largely remains below the margo plicatus. However, during intensive exercise, acidic gastric contents can more frequently ascend and contact the vulnerable squamous region. If this occurs consistently, it significantly elevates the risk of gastric mucosal damage.
Practically, this phenomenon is frequently observed in young horses undergoing training, equids engaged in intensive work, or those experiencing periods of heightened stress.
Gastric ulcers can present with a wide range of clinical manifestations. These include:
Crucially, these symptoms can overlap with other health issues (e.g., dental problems, parasitic burden, saddle soreness, hormonal imbalances). Therefore, a critical diagnostic approach is always warranted.
A supplement is most effective when foundational management is optimal. For cases of (suspected) gastric ulcers, the following are fundamental:
A logical progression: acute support, maintaining recovery, maintenance
Horses with gastric ulcers often require more support than just management and dietary adjustments. To optimally facilitate recovery and maintenance for gastric ulcers, we have developed the Egusin concept. With our three supplements, you can provide optimal support to your horse in every phase of recovery. We employ a clear structured approach. Not because “more is always better”, but because the stomach must also remain in physiological balance. Excessive or prolonged buffering is undesirable. Therefore, there is a protocol with distinct objectives for each phase.
For horses requiring immediate gastric support, for example, in cases of pain, significantly altered behavior, or refusal to perform.
The name Egusin SLH refers to EGUS and the concept of Stomach Lining Healing: gastric lining support for gastric irritations.
Egusin SLH contains potent buffering components that contribute to a normal acid balance and support the gastric lining in recovering from the effects of stomach acid. Additionally, it contains (natural) gel-forming components that can help create a protective layer on the gastric mucosa. It also includes components that contribute to intestinal flora balance, thereby supporting digestion.
Administer 50 grams per 100 kg body weight per day, divided between morning and evening rations. A 500 kg horse will receive 250 grams per day. Do not exceed 350 grams per animal per day.
After approximately 4 weeks (two buckets), it is advised to transition to Egusin 250 to maintain recovery and help prevent recurrence of symptoms.
Relapses often occur when treatment is discontinued as soon as improvement is observed, while the gastric lining is often still in the process of healing.
Egusin 250 is intended to:
Egusin SLH contains potent buffering components and is designed for the acute phase. Prolonged buffering can maintain an excessively high pH, which is ultimately not optimal for digestion. Therefore, after the acute phase, you transition to Egusin 250.
Egusin 250 primarily contains components with gel-forming properties, operates with fewer buffering components, and can therefore be used for a longer duration.
Egusin 250 is recommended for as long as necessary, but for a minimum of two months.
Egusin 250 does not contain fenugreek seeds and can therefore be safely administered to pregnant mares.
Some horses experience recurrent gastric sensitivity or are simply 'gastric-sensitive' due to their management, training, or stress levels. Egusin 365 was developed for these cases.
For horses requiring daily care for recurrent gastric issues. Also applicable during feed changes or cases of fecal water syndrome; it contributes to normal gastric function.
Egusin 365 contains, among other ingredients, polyphenols from grape extract and natural vitamin E. This aids in supporting horses during winter months and training, as horses may have a higher requirement during exertion, and winter rations are typically lower in vitamin E than fresh pasture grass in spring.
Polyphenols and Vitamin E are powerful plant-based antioxidants that help horses combat oxidative stress, inflammation, and support the immune system and muscles. Horses in training have an increased requirement to maintain supple and healthy muscles.
For long-term use, to prevent gastric problems: 100 grams daily, divided over two meals.
When distilled to its essence, a practical plan looks like this:
Unsure which product or step is suitable for your horse, its training, and its management? Please contact us for questions or advice. We are happy to help you devise a plan tailored to your specific situation.
