09/25/2026
𝐆𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐜 𝐔𝐥𝐜𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐓𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐭 𝐒𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐕𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬
Gastric ulcers are common in horses, particularly those in regular training, competition, traveling or experiencing changes in routine.
Not every horse living with ulcers has outward symptoms, but possible signs of gastric ulcers may include:
• Decreased appetite or picky eating
• Weight loss or difficulty maintaining condition
• Poor performance or reluctance to work
• Changes in attitude or behavior
• Girthiness or sensitivity when grooming or saddling
• Mild, recurring colic or digestive discomfort
The only way to definitively diagnose gastric ulcers is to look inside the stomach. Gastroscopy uses a specialized flexible endoscope that is passed through the horse’s nostril and into the stomach, allowing the veterinarian to directly examine the stomach lining and identify ulcers or other abnormalities.
This is important because not every horse showing signs of gastric discomfort has ulcers and treating without a diagnosis may not address the underlying problem.
What Happens If Ulcers Are Found?
Treatment is individualized based on the location and severity of the ulcers. Veterinarians may use medications that reduce stomach acid and allow the stomach lining to heal, along with management changes designed to reduce the risk of recurrence.
Lifestyle and feeding changes may include:
• Providing more consistent access to forage
• Reducing prolonged periods without feed
• Feeding smaller, more frequent meals
• Evaluating concentrate/grain intake
• Managing stress when possible
• Adjusting training, travel, and competition routines
Gastroscopy can help take the guesswork out of gastric ulcer management by showing us what is actually happening inside your horse’s stomach! If you suspect your horse may be experiencing gastric discomfort, talk with us at Skillman Veterinary Services about whether gastroscopy is appropriate.
https://skillmanvet.com/
