Do Equine Ulcers Impact Performance? What Every Owner Should Know

Equine ulcers are more common than most people think, and they can have a big impact on how a horse feels, eats, and performs.
If you’ve ever wondered why a seemingly healthy horse suddenly loses its spark, ulcers could be the hidden reason.

What Causes Stomach Ulcers in Horses?

Horses are not like human beings and don’t eat two or three big meals like we do. Their stomach makes acid all day, every day, whether there’s food in there or not. When horses don’t have constant access to hay or grass, that acid moves around fast and irritates the stomach lining.
Add in stress from hauling, stall time, or heavy training, and it’s easy to see why stomach ulcers in horses show up so often. Even high-grain diets can set them up for trouble. In short, lifestyle and routine are usually at the heart of what causes stomach ulcers in horses.

Recognizing Equine Ulcer Symptoms

The tricky part is that a horse with ulcers doesn’t always wave a red flag. Some show clear signs, while others just seem “off.”

Common equine ulcer symptoms include:

• Not finishing meals or suddenly getting picky
• Weight dropping off despite having good feed
• Irritability when saddling or grooming
• A dull coat or rough hair
• Reduced energy under the saddle
• Grinding teeth or frequent yawning

Sometimes the only hint is a dip in performance. A horse that used to work happily may start resisting, slowing down, or just not giving their all.
Owners often blame this on training issues when in reality, it’s discomfort in the equine stomach

For more insights: Why Is Proper Care of Horse Hooves Crucial for Their Performance?

The Different Types of Ulcers in Horses

Not every ulcer is the same. Knowing where they occur helps determine the best treatment.

Main Types of Ulcers in Horses:

1. Squamous ulcers – Found in the upper, unprotected part of the stomach. Usually from acid splashing around.
2. Glandular ulcers – Located in the lower stomach, where mucus normally protects tissue. Stress and certain medications are common triggers.
3. Colonic ulcers – These affect the hindgut. They’re less common but can be tied to diet changes or long-term use of NSAIDs.

Even though the symptoms overlap, the type of ulcer guides what approach works best for recovery.

Also Explore: Fermented Wheat Germ Extract for Strong Equine Immunity

Equine Ulcer Treatment That Works

When it comes to equine ulcer treatment, medication is often the first step. Vets commonly prescribe omeprazole to reduce acid production, sometimes paired with sucralfate to coat and protect the stomach.

But medicine alone won’t keep ulcers away. Daily management matters too, like:

• Turnout and grazing time should be maximized.
• Free-choice hay helps buffer acid naturally.
• Cut back on grain-heavy meals when possible.
• Reduce stressful routines like long hours in a trailer or stall.

Many owners also add equine gastric ulcer supplements. These can include ingredients that soothe the stomach lining, support digestion, or help balance gut bacteria. They aren’t a cure, but they can be useful.

Shop Now: Immunovet EQ

Do Ulcers Affect Performance?

Absolutely. Horses with ulcers often feel sore and distracted, which directly shows up in the arena. A jumper might start refusing fences, a dressage horse could lose its softness, and a racehorse may simply run out of oxygen halfway down the track.
When ulcers interfere with digestion, energy levels drop. Pair that with pain under the saddle, and the result is a horse that can’t give its best effort. The good news is that once the stomach heals and management improves, many horses return to their best form.

Final Thoughts for Horse Owners

Ulcers aren’t just a small bump in the road—they can change how your horse eats, feels, and performs. By paying attention to equine stomach ulcer symptoms early and adjusting management, you’ll save your horse a lot of discomfort.

Want effective supplements and proven strategies? Visit My Immunovet to explore solutions that support your horse’s gut health and overall well-being.

Explore Immunovet Blog for Knowledge & More

People Also Ask

Do equine ulcers go away on their own?

No, ulcers rarely heal without treatment. Acid in the horse’s stomach keeps irritating sores. Veterinary care with omeprazole plus better forage and stress management is key.

What is the behavior of a horse with ulcers?

Horses with ulcers may act irritable, girthy, or sluggish. They often resist under saddle, pin their ears when groomed, or leave meals unfinished. Watch appetite and behavior shifts.

What not to feed a horse with ulcers?

Avoid high-starch, sugary feeds like sweet grains or molasses treats. Stick to forage, alfalfa, and ulcer-friendly diets. Specialized supplements can also support recovery.