Úlceras Gástricas in Horses: The Hidden Epidemic
Até 90% dos cavalos de corrida e 60% dos cavalos de alto desempenho apresentam úlceras gástricas. Compreender as causas ajuda a prevenir esta condição dolorosa.
A síndrome da úlcera gástrica equina (EGUS) é um dos problemas de saúde mais comuns em cavalos. As úlceras se desenvolvem no revestimento do estômago devido à exposição a ácidos, estresse, dieta e práticas de manejo. Eles causam dor, mau desempenho e mudanças comportamentais.
Pontos-chave
- Up to 90% of racehorses, 60% of performance horses, and 50% of pleasure horses have ulcers
- Two types exist: squamous ulceration (ESGD) and glandular ulceration (EGGD)
- High-concentrate diets, stall confinement, and stress are major risk factors
- Signs include poor appetite, weight loss, girthiness, and behavioral changes
- Diagnosis requires gastroscopy — a camera inserted into the stomach
- Treatment with omeprazole (GastroGard) for 28 days heals most ulcers
Understanding Equine Stomach Anatomy
The horse stomach has two distinct regions. The upper squamous mucosa lacks glands and has no natural protection against acid — this is where most ulcers form (ESGD). The lower glandular mucosa produces bicarbonate and mucus for protection. Ulcers here (EGGD) are less common but harder to treat. Horses continuously secrete gastric acid; the squamous mucosa is protected only when saliva (containing bicarbonate) and food buffer the acid.
Causes and Risk Factors
High-grain, low-forage diets reduce saliva production and buffering. Fasting or meal feeding leaves the stomach empty and exposed to acid. Intense exercise increases abdominal pressure, pushing acid onto the squamous mucosa. Stress — transport, competition, illness, and changes in routine — elevates cortisol and reduces protective mechanisms. NSAID use (phenylbutazone, flunixin) impairs glandular blood flow. Stall confinement and limited turnout increase stress and decrease forage intake.
Treatment and Prevention
Omeprazole (GastroGard, UlcerGard) is the gold standard — it suppresses acid production, allowing ulcers to heal. Treatment lasts 28 days for squamous ulcers; glandular ulcers may need 6-8 weeks. Sucralfate coats and protects glandular ulcers. Feed frequent, small meals rather than large grain meals. Provide free-choice forage. Alfalfa hay is particularly effective due to high calcium and protein content. Reduce grain and increase fat for energy. Allow turnout and social contact.
Quando consultar um veterinário imediatamente
- Your horse shows girthiness or resentment of the saddle
- There's poor appetite, especially for grain
- Weight loss with no other explanation
- Behavioral changes or decreased performance
- Recurrent mild colic episodes
Este artigo é apenas para fins educacionais e não substitui o aconselhamento veterinário profissional. Se o seu animal apresentar algum sintoma, entre em contato imediatamente com o Royal Veterinary Center pelo telefone +853 6677 6611.