Horses that are kept as pets or for racing may not always receive the best and most nutritionally balanced diets. Horses that graze on grass pastures may be exposed to a variety of plants and grasses, some of which contain substances that can damage their sensitive digestive systems.
Horse owners should try to avoid feeding horses excessive levels of grain, as this can cause the development of gastric ulcers. Grain is a rich source of carbohydrates and when consumed in large quantities, it can upset the delicate balance of acids and enzymes in the horse’s stomach.
Gastric ulcers are painful lesions that can form on the lining of the stomach. They are often caused by the irritation of stomach acids on the sensitive lining of the stomach. Horses that develop gastric ulcers may lose weight, have poor appetites, and experience episodes of colic.
There is no one single cure for gastric ulcers in horses. However, there are a few supplements that can help to protect the stomach lining and promote healing.
One of the best supplement for gastric ulcers in horses is called DGL. It contains licorice, which has long been associated with the treatment of gastric ulcers in horses. Licorice binds to stomach cells and creates an increased amount of mucous that protects against damage by stomach acid. Many veterinarians also recommend using slippery elm bark, marshmallow root, or chamomile to help soothe and protect the stomach lining.
If your horse is suffering from gastric ulcers, it is important to consult with your veterinarian to find the best supplement regime for your horse. There are a number of different supplements available, and each horse will respond differently to them. By working with your veterinarian, you can find the right supplement for your horse.
A gastric ulcer occurs when tissue inside the stomach becomes inflamed or deteriorates due to exposure to stomach acids. The most common signs of a gastric ulcer are weight loss, anorexia, and colic. However, some horses may not show any signs at all.
‘Exposure to stomach acid.’ The most common sign of a gastric ulcer is weight loss, anorexia, and colic. There are treatments available for this condition. However if the horse’s diet does not contain sufficient amounts of Vitamin E, selenium or zinc then they should be given to the horse.
