Management changes are imperative for successful treatment & prevention of gastric ulcers.
Treating
Omprazole products are most effective on relatively empty stomachs. Best given first thing in the morning as horses tend to sleep between 10pm-sunrise therefore are naturally semi fasted. Give omeprazole then ideally wait 30-60mins before feeding hay or hard feed.
Feeding
ALWAYS feed 2kg or 3L of hay or chaff (not grain) before exercise or traveling. This creates a fibre ball/mat to absorb & prevent acid splash on squamous (upper, unprotected) part of equine stomach.
Causes/Triggers
Shows, outing, change in environment or any herd changes that create stress (even if not outwardly displayed) are the perfect trigger for ulcers in ANY horse. Misconceptions that only TBs tend to get ulcers are FALSE!
Clinical Signs
Extra Notes
Tips for managing gastric ulcers in horses