By: Dr Rosie Alcorn BVSc PG Cert VPS Cert AVP MRCVS
Gastric ulcers in horses are among the most commonly diagnosed issues affecting performance and well-being. A significant number of sport horses suffer from some degree of ulceration, which can negatively impact weight, behaviour, and performance. These ulcers are often triggered by stressful events such as travel, competition, and changes in routine.
As responsible owners, it's essential to minimise these risks by adopting proactive, horse-friendly strategies. While this can be challenging during the busy summer show season, even small changes can make a noticeable difference. In this article, I share practical tips to help you manage and prevent gastric ulcers in horses during travel and competition.
Chewing forage stimulates saliva production, which naturally buffers stomach acid. Forage also creates a fibrous mat that helps protect the stomach lining from splashing acid, especially important when horses are moving.
Tips:
Always provide hay when travelling or stabled at shows.
If your horse doesn’t eat while on the move, stop regularly to allow grazing or hay intake.
Offer soaked fibre mashes to encourage fluid and fibre consumption.
Hand grazing at shows, where possible, is highly beneficial.
Dehydration increases stress and disrupts digestion. During travel - especially in hot weather - horses should have regular access to fresh water.
Tips:
Some horses are reluctant to drink unfamiliar water; try adding a splash of apple juice to make it more palatable.
Ensure your water tank is clean and filled before each journey.
Sloppy fibre mashes can naturally boost water intake.
Preparation starts long before the show season. A gut-friendly diet is key to managing equine gastric ulcers.
Tips:
Feed a low-starch, high-fibre diet to ulcer-prone horses.
Avoid feeding more than 2 kg per meal.
Consult with an equine nutritionist if you're unsure about your current feeding plan.
Sensi-Care is a low starch, high fibre, cereal free muesli that is non-heating and suitable for even the most sensitive types. It also has the benefit of being super palatable due to its added coconut flavouring.
Extended travel without breaks can be stressful and increase the risk of ulcers. Plan rest stops where your horse can eat, drink, and, if possible, get off the lorry to stretch and relax.
Maintaining familiar routines can help reduce stress during competitions. If your horse is used to daily turnout, ensure they have time to hand walk and graze.
Tips:
Stick to your horse’s usual feeding schedule.
Include downtime in the evening to allow for rest and mental relaxation.
Horses often sweat during competition and travel, leading to electrolyte loss. Replacing these is essential to support equine digestive health and overall performance.
Tips:
Use a balanced electrolyte supplement during the show season.
Consult your vet or nutritionist for the appropriate type and dosage.
In some cases, pharmaceutical intervention may be necessary. If your horse has a history of ulcers or shows symptoms, speak to your vet to develop a tailored prevention or treatment plan.
Gastric ulcers in performance horses are common, painful, and potentially costly - but they are also highly preventable. By making simple yet strategic changes to feeding, hydration, travel management, and supplementation, particularly during the busy summer show season, you can keep your horse healthier, happier, and performing at their best.
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