June 2017 Educational Seminar Recap: Equine Gastric Health

June 16, 2017

The Carousel Horse welcome Elaina Eppinger, Purina Animal Nutrition Lifestyle Product Specialist, and Kayla Burgess of the Pittsburgh Agway Group as they presented a fun, interactive seminar on Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome.

Their presentation touched on a variety of topics including contributing factors associated with gastric discomfort:

Environment/stress related

• Elevated exercise level and intensity
• Performance and racing
• Hectic training environment
• Nervous disposition
• Trailering
• Lack of turnout
• Lack of direct contact with other horses
• Talk radio (vs. music) playing in barn
• Thoroughbred breed
• Previous gastric ulcer diagnosis

Management/diet related

• Lack of pasture access
• Fasting
• Large meals with high starch content
• Greater than 6 hours between meals
• Inadequate forage quality and quantity
• Stall kept or on stall rest
• Water deprivation/intermittent access
• Use of paste electrolytes or electrolytes in water
• Use of NSAIDs for a prolonged period of time

Signs associated with gastric discomfort

• Poor appetite
• Picky eating
• Poor body condition
• Weight loss
• Chronic diarrhea
• Poor coat condition
• Bruxism (teeth grinding)
• Behavioral changes
• Aggression
• Nervous behaviors
• Side biting
• “Girthiness”
• Acute or recurrent colic
• Poor performance

Treatment and management tips

• Anticipate stressful events (such as travel, competition or intense training)
• Provide a peaceful environment for your horse, eliminate excessive traffic and noise in the barn
• Provide as much turnout as possible, preferably with one or more horses
• Provide enrichment items, such as toys and mirrors
• Keep a regular schedule for feeding, grooming, exercise etc.
• Provide continuous access to clean fresh water
• Avoid the use of paste and water soluble electrolytes
• Practice good parasite control
• Always consult with your veterinarian before administering NSAIDs
• Utilize slow-feeder hay nets if horses are stalled

Feeding management recommendations

• Never allow more than 6 hours of fasting
• Provide frequent access to good quality hay and pasture
• Incorporate alfalfa hay into the diet
• 1-2 lbs at regular 5-6 hour intervals
• Feed small frequent meals (3 to 6 per day)
• Provide continuous access to water

If you missed out on this seminar, be sure to follow us on social media for announcements on upcoming events at the store.

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