Equine gastric ulcer syndrome: is feeding key?
Authors: Moore-Colyer Meriel
Journal: UK-Vet Equine
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome and Feeding Management Equine squamous gastric disease remains a widespread clinical concern, developing through complex interactions between gastric acid and the stomach's squamous mucosa, with presentations ranging from obvious colic and poor performance to subtle behavioural changes that may be overlooked. Moore-Colyer's 2024 review synthesises the evidence around management-related risk factors—particularly feeding practices—that either precipitate or protect against this condition, positioning dietary intervention as a controllable variable distinct from the well-documented stressors of weaning, transportation and intense exercise. The analysis demonstrates that feeding frequency, forage quality and type, concentrate composition, and meal timing fundamentally influence gastric pH dynamics and mucosal vulnerability, with prolonged periods of fasting and high-starch diets emerging as particularly problematic. For equine professionals across all disciplines, the practical takeaway is clear: structured feeding regimens centred on frequent forage intake, appropriate acid buffering through diet selection, and timing around exercise schedules represent evidence-based approaches to reducing ulcer incidence and supporting recovery. Given the economic and welfare implications of gastric disease, integrating nutritional management strategies should be considered a cornerstone of both preventative and therapeutic protocols in equine practice.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Modify feeding management as primary intervention—feeding strategy is the most controllable factor in preventing and managing gastric ulcers
- •Consider stress, exercise timing, and weaning protocols alongside nutrition, as these compound the acid-mucosa interaction problem
- •Understand the distinction between squamous and glandular disease, as diagnostic accuracy and dietary management approaches may differ
Key Findings
- •Equine squamous gastric disease results from interaction of acid with stomach mucosa and is highly prevalent in the equine population
- •Stress, weaning, and exercise are documented causative factors, but diet-related causes are primary modifiable risk factors
- •Feeding regimens significantly impact disease initiation and progression of equine squamous gastric disorder