04/28/2026
Did you know Gastric Ulcers affect 50-90% of horses?
Gastric ulcers are divided into two categories. Non-glandular ulcers occur in the upper portion of the stomach, where acid is not usually found. These ulcers are graded as follows:
Grade 0 = intact stomach lining; no appearance of reddening.
Grade 1 = intact stomach lining; areas of reddening.
Grade 2 = small single or multiple ulcers on stomach lining.
Grade 3 = large single or multiple ulcers on stomach lining.
Grade 4 = extensive/deep ulcers on stomach lining
Non-glandular ulcers are found in the lower portion of the stomach, where acid is generally present. These ulcers, often found on or around the pylorus (the exit from the stomach into the small intestine) are not graded, but are described based on location and appearance.
Both kinds of ulcers can cause a variety of symptoms including inappetence, poor performance, behavioral changes, and colic. While there are medication to treat ulcers changes in management are often crucial to help prevent future problems. These changes are generally targeted towards decreasing stress, increasing access to roughage in the form of pasture or hay, and providing treatment with antacids prior to and during stressful events. There are many supplements available as well, however very few have published scientific studies about their efficacy.
