Support for Ulcers In Horses
24/7 Stomach Comfort
Gastric Ulcers in Horses
Gastric health is vital for all horses, especially those in performance. Research shows that the stresses of training, travel, and competition contribute to ulcers in up to 90% of horses. Prioritizing stomach comfort is essential.
Benefits of Vitalize Products for Gastric Health
To support optimal gastric health, we recommend feeding Vitalize Alimend daily for stomach comfort and GI tissue integrity.
See more about the benefits below.
Contains MHB3®, a multi-patented high molecular weight hyaluronan that coats the stomach and supports GI tissue integrity.
Contains MHB3®, a multi-patented high molecular weight hyaluronan that coats the stomach and supports GI tissue integrity.
Contains MHB3®, a multi-patented high molecular weight hyaluronan that coats the stomach and supports GI tissue integrity.
Contains MHB3®, a multi-patented high molecular weight hyaluronan that coats the stomach and supports GI tissue integrity.
Gastric Health
Understanding Equine Gastric Ulcers
What Are Gastric Ulcers?
Ulcers happen when the protective lining of the horse’s stomach is compromised, allowing stomach acid to cause irritation and sores. Unlike humans, horse stomachs continually produce stomach acid, even when they’re not eating. That’s why it’s common to see ulcers in horses, especially performance horses, which can lead to discomfort, reduced performance, and long-term health issues.
Common Causes of Gastric Ulcers
Several factors increase the risk of ulcers in horses. Stress is a big contributor, whether it comes from traveling, competing, or changes in your horse’s routine. Feeding practices also play a role—diets low in forage, high in grain, or long periods without food can make a horse more susceptible to ulcers.
Signs and Symptoms of Ulcers in Horses
Recognizing the signs of gastric ulcers in your horse is essential for early intervention. Watch for changes like a reduced appetite, weight loss, poor coat condition, increased irritability, or frequent colic episodes. Identifying these symptoms early allows for timely treatment, as untreated ulcers can lead to more serious health issues down the road.
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole are commonly used to suppress stomach acid secretion in horses at risk for gastric ulcers. While effective in the short term, these products can't be used continuously and may cause unwanted side effects, including disruption to digestion and nutrient absorption. Additionally, stopping PPIs can lead to a rebound increase in acid production, potentially worsening the ulcers and creating a cycle that’s difficult to break. To break this cycle and promote long-term gastric health, a stomach comfort supplement is essential to support and maintain the health of the horse’s foregut.
