Gastric ulcers are a common health concern for Off-the-Track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs). These horses often come with a history of intense training and high-stress environments, which can make them particularly susceptible to digestive issues like gastric ulcers. This blog will cover what gastric ulcers are, why they’re prevalent in OTTBs, how to spot symptoms, and effective management strategies to keep your OTTB healthy and comfortable.
What Are Gastric Ulcers?
Gastric ulcers are erosions or lesions in the stomach lining caused by excess stomach acid. A horse’s stomach produces acid continuously to aid in digesting its fibrous diet, but if left unchecked, this acid can wear away the stomach lining, causing painful ulcers. It is common and all horses can get ulcers, however racehorses have a risk of developing gastric ulcers significantly higher due to the stress of their racing lifestyle, high-energy diets, and frequent changes in management.
Why Are OTTBs Prone to Gastric Ulcers?
Several factors contribute to the high incidence of gastric ulcers in OTTBs:
- Stress from Racing: Racehorses face high levels of physical and mental stress, which can increase acid production and reduce blood flow to the stomach lining, making it more susceptible to ulcers.
- Diet: Many racehorses are fed high-grain, low-forage diets to meet energy demands, which don’t provide the natural buffering effect that forage offers. Grain-based diets promote acid production and leave the stomach unprotected.
- Limited Access to Forage: In racing environments, OTTBs may have restricted access to pasture or hay, leading to prolonged periods where the stomach is empty. This lack of constant fiber intake leaves the stomach exposed to acid and heightens ulcer risks.
- Frequent Changes in Routine: OTTBs transitioning to new homes often experience changes in diet, turnout, and workload, which can exacerbate stress levels and digestive issues, increasing the likelihood of ulcers.
Recognizing the Signs of Gastric Ulcers in OTTBs
Identifying gastric ulcers in horses can be challenging, as symptoms are often subtle and vary between individuals. Here are some common signs to look out for:
- Reduced Appetite: Horses with ulcers may be less interested in grain or seem picky about their food.
- Weight Loss or Poor Body Condition: Digestive discomfort can lead to decreased food intake and weight loss.
- Behavioral Changes: Ulcers can cause irritability, especially around feeding time. Horses might become grumpy, resistant, or reactive, particularly when girthing or during work.
- Colic Symptoms: Mild, recurring colic or signs of discomfort, such as pawing, rolling, or stretching, may indicate an underlying issue like ulcers.
- Poor Performance: OTTBs with gastric ulcers may lack focus, tire easily, or show a reluctance to move forward or work as usual.
If you suspect your OTTB may have ulcers, consult with your veterinarian to confirm the diagnosis. Gastroscopy is the only definitive way to diagnose gastric ulcers, as it allows the vet to visually inspect the stomach lining.
Effective Management and Treatment for Gastric Ulcers
Once diagnosed, there are several treatment and management options available for OTTBs with gastric ulcers:
1. Medication (Omeprazole)
- Omeprazole is the primary medication used to treat gastric ulcers in horses. It works by reducing stomach acid production, allowing the ulcers to heal. In New Zealand, omeprazole is available as a prescription medication through veterinarians.
- Treatment typically lasts 28 days, with dosages tailored to the severity of the ulcers. Some horses may require maintenance doses if they’re prone to recurrence.
2. Dietary Adjustments
- Increase Forage: Provide free-choice hay or grass to keep the stomach full and prevent acid from coming into contact with the stomach lining. High-quality, hay has natural buffering properties.
- Reduce Grain Intake: If possible, reduce the amount of grain or switch to low-starch feeds that are easier on the stomach. Options such as beet pulp or chaff can provide energy without causing excess acid production.
- Add Digestive Supplements: Probiotics, prebiotics, and stomach-coating supplements may help create a healthier stomach environment and support the healing process.
3. Minimize Stress
- Consistent Routine: Establishing a predictable feeding and turnout schedule can reduce stress for your OTTB, helping to stabilize acid production.
- Turnout Time: Allowing more turnout time helps lower stress levels and provides grazing, which is beneficial for managing gastric health.
- Slow Workload Increase: For recently retired OTTBs, introduce a new training schedule gradually to avoid stress-related ulcer flares.
4. Preventive Supplements
- Consider using supplements designed to buffer stomach acid or coat the stomach lining, such as calcium-based or seaweed-derived products. Although they don’t treat ulcers, these supplements may help reduce the risk of recurrence in susceptible horses. We use and love BetaVet Gastri-Tec, however there are lots on the market for everyones different needs.
Preventing Gastric Ulcers: Best Practices for OTTBs
Preventing ulcers is always easier than treating them, especially in horses prone to stress. Here are some preventive measures:
- Provide Constant Access to Forage: The natural, continuous intake of fiber through hay or grass helps neutralize stomach acid and protects the stomach lining.
- Feed Little and Often: If you must feed grain, offer it in small portions and mix it with chaff to slow down eating and aid digestion.
- Limit Fasting Periods: Long periods without food can lead to acid buildup, so try to avoid more than 4-6 hours without hay or grass.
- Monitor Weight and Body Condition: Keep track of your OTTB’s weight and condition regularly to catch early signs of ulcers or other health issues.
- Consider Regular Fecal Egg Counts: While not directly related to ulcers, fecal egg counts help manage parasite load, which contributes to overall gut health, making it less likely for your horse to develop other stress-related digestive issues.
Gastric ulcers are a common issue in OTTBs but can be effectively managed with the right approach. A combination of veterinary treatment, diet adjustments, and consistent care can alleviate discomfort and help prevent ulcers from returning. By understanding your OTTB’s unique needs and providing a low-stress, forage-rich environment, you’ll be helping them thrive in their new life off the track.
If you suspect your OTTB may be struggling with gastric ulcers, consult your veterinarian to create a treatment plan. With the right support, your OTTB can lead a healthy, happy life—and perform at its best in its new career.