Equine gastric ulcers are a common ailment in horses, affecting up to 90% of performance horses. However, even if a horse is treated for ulcers and the ulcer is resolved, some horses continue to display symptoms associated with ulcers, such as poor appetite, weight loss, and poor condition. This is known as “post-ulcer syndrome.” In this blog post, we will discuss post-ulcer care and prevention, as well as the reasons why some horses continue to exhibit ulcer symptoms even after treatment.
Prevention and Care The best way to deal with ulcers is to prevent them from occurring in the first place. Horses are natural grazers and have evolved to graze for extended periods. Therefore, keeping a horse’s stomach full is important to maintaining its health. Feeding smaller, more frequent meals, and providing access to forage at all times can help prevent ulcers.
If a horse has been diagnosed with ulcers, treatment typically involves medications that decrease acid production in the stomach. But once the ulcers are healed, the focus should shift to preventing future ulcers and managing post-ulcer syndrome.
Post-ulcer Syndrome Post-ulcer syndrome can occur when a horse has been treated for ulcers, but continues to show symptoms associated with ulcers. These symptoms can include loss of appetite, weight loss, and poor condition.
One reason for post-ulcer syndrome is that the healing of the ulcer can leave scar tissue, which can be sensitive to acid production and create the same symptoms as ulcers. Another reason may be due to a change in the microbial population in the gut, as prolonged acid exposure can disrupt the microbiome.
In addition, the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can contribute to post-ulcer syndrome. NSAIDs can cause gastric ulcers and increase the risk of ulcers developing or returning, even after treatment.
The touch points to check if your horse still reacts to ulcer pain are the following:
Girth area:
Horses with ulcers may become sensitive in the girth area when a saddle is placed on their back, as the pressure can aggravate the ulcers.
Flanks:
Horses with ulcers may also become sensitive to pressure on their flanks, which can cause discomfort.
Back:
Some horses may develop back pain as a result of ulcers, so it’s important to check for signs of discomfort when grooming or tacking up.
Attitude:
Horses with ulcers may also exhibit changes in behavior, such as becoming irritable or reluctant to work, which can be an indication of discomfort or pain.
Eating habits:
Horses with ulcers may have a decreased appetite or reluctance to eat, especially if the ulcers are in the stomach. Keep an eye on your horse’s eating habits to make sure they are maintaining a healthy appetite.
It’s important to note that these touch points may not necessarily indicate ulcers, as they can also be caused by other conditions. It’s always best to consult with your veterinarian if you suspect your horse may be experiencing pain or discomfort.
As a horse owner, I was devastated when my gelding Sibel was diagnosed with gastric ulcers. Despite following the treatment protocol and modifying his diet, Sibel continued to show symptoms such as poor appetite, weight loss, and a sour attitude. It wasn’t until we started addressing post-ulcer syndrome that we began to see real progress.
Initially, Sibel was very sensitive and reactive to touch, particularly in his flank and girth area. We worked with a massage therapist who taught us techniques to release tension in these areas, as well as exercises to help Sibel stretch and build strength. Over time, we noticed that he was much more relaxed and willing to engage in work.
We also implemented a strict riding plan, gradually increasing the length and intensity of our rides. We made sure to incorporate plenty of breaks, allowing Sibel to stretch and rest. By following this plan, we were able to build up his fitness and stamina while minimizing stress on his digestive system.
It wasn’t an easy road, but with patience and perseverance, Sibel made a full recovery. He’s now happy, healthy, and back to his old self. If you’re dealing with post-ulcer syndrome in your horse, don’t give up hope. With the right treatment plan and plenty of love and care, your horse can overcome this condition and return to optimal health.
Thera are exercises that can help horses release tension and promote overall well-being, which can aid in post-ulcer syndrome recovery. Here are some exercises you can try with your horse:
Groundwork:
Groundwork exercises such as lunging, long lining, and round penning can help your horse release tension and anxiety.
One approach is to focus on exercises that promote relaxation and stress relief, such as walking, trotting, and lunging in a calm and controlled manner. Ground poles can also be used to encourage your horse to stretch and relax their back muscles. Additionally, exercises that encourage your horse to engage their hind end and lift their back, such as backing up or working over cavaletti poles, can help to strengthen their core muscles and reduce tension.
Stretching:
Stretching exercises can help your horse loosen up tight muscles and improve overall flexibility. You can do simple stretches with your horse, such as carrot stretches or leg stretches.
Massage:
Massaging your horse can help release muscle tension and promote relaxation. There are several types of massages you can try, such as Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and trigger point therapy.
By targeting specific points on the horse’s body, massage can help to release tension and promote relaxation.
One key area to focus on is the horse’s neck. The muscles in the neck can become tight and painful as a result of post-ulcer syndrome. Gently massaging these muscles, starting at the base of the neck and working your way up towards the ears, can help to relieve tension and discomfort.
Another important area to address is the horse’s back. Post-ulcer syndrome can cause the horse to carry tension in the muscles of the back, leading to stiffness and soreness. Massaging the back muscles, using long, sweeping strokes from the withers to the croup, can help to release this tension and promote relaxation.
It’s important to work with a qualified equine massage therapist when addressing post-ulcer syndrome in horses. A knowledgeable therapist can help to identify specific areas of tension and discomfort and develop a treatment plan tailored to your horse’s individual needs.
Riding:
Gentle riding can help your horse maintain his fitness and keep him mentally stimulated. You should always start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of the rides.
When designing a riding plan for a horse recovering from ulcers, it’s important to keep in mind that the horse’s physical and mental well-being should be the top priority. Here are some guidelines to consider:
Start slowly:
When reintroducing a horse to work after an ulcer episode, it’s important to start slowly and gradually increase the workload. This will allow the horse’s body to adjust to the increased demands and minimize the risk of re-injuring the digestive system.
Focus on relaxation:
Riding should be a calming experience for the horse, especially for one recovering from ulcers. Incorporate relaxation exercises like stretching and deep breathing to help the horse unwind and release tension.
Avoid stressful situations:
Stress can exacerbate ulcer symptoms, so it’s important to avoid situations that might cause anxiety or fear for the horse. This could include crowded arenas or trails, intense training sessions, or jumping.
Incorporate frequent breaks:
Taking frequent breaks during rides will give the horse a chance to rest and digest food, which can help prevent the development of new ulcers. This is especially important for horses with a history of ulcers.
Pay attention to diet:
Feeding a post-ulcer horse a healthy diet is crucial to aid in their recovery. Make sure to provide frequent small meals throughout the day instead of large meals to prevent the stomach from becoming too empty, which can irritate the ulcerated area. Additionally, consider adding supplements or medications prescribed by the veterinarian to support gut health.
Monitor for signs of discomfort:
Even after recovery, horses with a history of ulcers may be more prone to developing them in the future. It’s important to monitor for signs of discomfort, such as reluctance to work or changes in appetite, and consult with a veterinarian if any issues arise.
Remember, each horse’s recovery from ulcers will be unique, so it’s important to work with a veterinarian and tailor a riding plan to meet their individual needs.
Turnout:
Turnout is important for a horse’s overall health and well-being. Allowing your horse to have access to a pasture or a paddock where he can move around freely can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
One recommended book on equine ulcers and post-ulcer care is “Understanding Equine Ulcers: Your Guide to Horse Health Care and Management” by Vanessa Britton. This book provides a comprehensive guide to diagnosing, treating, and managing equine ulcers, including post-ulcer care and prevention. You can find the book on Amazon using this link: https://www.amazon.com/Understanding-Equine-Ulcers-Health-Management/dp/1629147129.
Conclusion Prevention is the key to avoiding ulcers in horses. Careful management of a horse’s diet and access to forage can go a long way in preventing ulcers from occurring. If a horse is diagnosed with ulcers, treatment should focus on not only healing the ulcers but also preventing future ulcers and managing post-ulcer syndrome. By taking these steps, we can help keep our equine friends healthy and happy.
Paradise paddock track systems have been gaining popularity in recent years as a natural and effective way to manage horses. If you’re a horse owner, you may have heard of the many benefits of paddock track systems for your horse’s health and well-being. Here’s why you should consider a paradise paddock track system for your tiger horse.
I had heard about the benefits of a track system for horses and decided to give it a try for my 10-year-old gelding, Max. I hired a contractor to build the track system in my pasture, and it took about a week to complete. Max was a bit curious about the construction process, but he quickly adjusted to the changes.
The track system was a 12-foot-wide path that wound around the perimeter of the pasture, covering about 1 acre. The footing was a mix of pea gravel and sand, which provided good drainage and was easy on Max’s hooves. We also added some shade structures and water troughs along the track to ensure Max had access to shelter and hydration during hot days.
At first, Max was hesitant to leave his familiar grazing spots in the middle of the pasture. But as he began to explore the track, he quickly discovered the benefits of the system. He had plenty of room to move around and could graze in different areas throughout the day. The varied terrain also provided him with a good workout and kept him mentally stimulated.
I’m thrilled with the results of the track system. Max is healthier and happier than ever, and I feel good knowing that he has a natural and stimulating environment to live in, and I will never go back to the transitional way of stalling my horses.
One of the most significant benefits of a paddock track system is that it mimics a horse’s natural environment. Horses are naturally grazing animals that are designed to move and eat throughout the day. In a traditional stall setting, horses are confined to a small space, which can lead to a number of health problems, including colic, ulcers, and obesity. With a paddock track system, horses have access to a larger space where they can move and graze throughout the day. This helps to keep their digestive system healthy, as well as improve their overall physical and mental health.
Another benefit of a paddock track system is that it can reduce stress in horses. Horses that are confined to a stall can become bored and anxious, leading to destructive behaviors such as cribbing or weaving. A paddock track system allows horses to move freely and socialize with other horses, which can reduce stress and promote natural behaviors.
If you’re interested in implementing a paddock track system for your horse, there are a few key resources that can help you get started. “Paddock Paradise: A Guide to Natural Horse Boarding” by Jaime Jackson is a great resource for learning more about the benefits of paddock track systems and how to implement them on your property. Jackson is an expert in natural horse care and has spent years studying wild horses and their natural behaviors. His book provides a comprehensive guide to designing and implementing a paddock track system that works for your horse.
Another great resource for horse owners is “The Horse Owner’s Guide to Natural Hoof Care” by Jaime Jackson. This book focuses specifically on natural hoof care and provides a step-by-step guide to caring for your horse’s hooves naturally. Since horses in a paddock track system are constantly moving, it’s important to keep their hooves healthy and well-maintained. This book provides valuable information on how to do just that.
When building a track system for horses, it is important to consider the size and layout of the paddock, as well as the materials used. A typical track system includes a central track or path, which should be wide enough for a horse to walk comfortably, as well as a surrounding area for grazing and resting.
The track should be made of a durable and safe material, such as crushed rock, pea gravel, or sand. The surrounding area can be grass, but should be well-maintained to prevent overgrazing and erosion.
When calculating the materials needed, it is important to consider the size of the track and surrounding area, as well as the desired depth of the footing material. For example, a 100 ft x 200 ft track with a 6-inch depth of footing material would require approximately 200 tons of material.
It is also important to consider drainage when building a track system. The track should be built with a slight slope to ensure proper drainage and prevent pooling of water.
Building a track system for horses requires careful planning and consideration of various factors. It is recommended to consult with a professional or experienced builder to ensure the safety and durability of the track system.
Here’s an example of how to build a simple track system for horses:
Start by marking out the boundaries of your track system. It can be any shape or size, but most are oval or rectangular.
Clear the area of any rocks, trees, or other debris that could pose a hazard to your horse. Make sure the ground is level and free from any holes or bumps.
Lay down a layer of geotextile fabric to prevent weeds from growing up through the track. This will also help with drainage.
Next, add a layer of compacted limestone or gravel. This will provide a firm, stable surface for your horse to walk on.
Install the fencing. Most track systems use a combination of wood or metal posts and electric tape or wire. Make sure the fencing is secure and at least 4.5 feet high to prevent your horse from jumping out.
Add any additional features you want, such as a watering station, shelter, or feeding area.
Finally, add the finishing touches, such as soft footing in areas where your horse will be trotting or cantering, and any decorative elements you like.
Materials needed:
Geotextile fabric
Limestone or gravel
Wooden or metal posts
Electric tape or wire
Soft footing (optional)
Calculations: The amount of materials needed will depend on the size and shape of your track system. Measure the area to be covered with geotextile fabric and limestone or gravel to determine the amount needed. Calculate the number of posts needed based on the length of fencing required, and add additional posts for corners and gates.
Does my track has to be grass free?
No, a track system does not necessarily have to be grass-free, but it’s recommended to have a strip of dirt or gravel along the track to avoid overgrazing and to reduce mud in wet weather. Some horse owners also opt for adding different footing materials on the track to create variety and stimulate the horse’s hooves and muscles. Ultimately, the specific design of the track system will depend on factors such as the climate, soil type, available materials, and the individual needs of the horses using it.
Research has also shown the benefits of a paddock track system for horses. A study published in the Journal of Equine Veterinary Science found that horses kept in a paddock track system had significantly lower stress levels and fewer behavioral problems than horses kept in traditional stalls. The study also found that horses in a paddock track system had improved hoof health and better overall physical condition.
In terms of resources and materials needed to implement a paddock track system, there are a few key things to consider. First, you’ll need to have enough space on your property to set up a track system. The size of the track will depend on the number of horses you have and the amount of space available. You’ll also need to consider the type of fencing you’ll use, as well as any additional features such as shelter or water sources.
Any benefit of grass-free track system?
Yes, there are several benefits to having a grass-free track system for horses:
Reduced risk of laminitis:
Laminitis is a common and serious health condition in horses that can be triggered by overconsumption of lush, high-sugar grass. A grass-free track system eliminates this risk by providing horses with controlled access to low-sugar forage and avoiding the need for pasture grazing.
More efficient use of land:
Grass-free track systems require less land than traditional pasture setups, as they focus on creating a defined path for horses to move around. This means that more horses can be kept on a smaller amount of land, without compromising their welfare.
Improved hoof health:
Walking on varied terrain and surfaces, such as gravel, sand, and dirt, can help to improve the strength and health of a horse’s hooves. This is because it encourages natural wear and tear, which can help to prevent issues such as overgrown hooves and thrush.
Better exercise and mental stimulation:
A track system that includes obstacles and varied terrain can provide horses with more interesting and challenging exercise than a flat, featureless pasture. This can help to improve their fitness, as well as their mental wellbeing.
In my opinion a grass-free track system can be a great option for horse owners who want to provide their horses with a safe, healthy, and stimulating environment to live in. However, it’s important to note that the track should still provide adequate access to forage, water, and shelter, as well as regular care and maintenance.
Overall, a paddock track system can be a great investment for horse owners looking to improve their horse’s health and well-being. By mimicking a horse’s natural environment and promoting natural behaviors, a paddock track system can help keep horses healthy, happy, and stress-free. With the right resources and support, implementing a paddock track system can be a rewarding and beneficial experience for both you and your horse.
