Up to 90% of competition horses show gastric ulceration. A practical guide to spotting symptoms, adjusting management, and supporting digestive balance.
Studies place the prevalence of equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS) at 60–90% in sport horses. The horse stomach evolved for continuous trickle-feeding of forage — modern stabling, concentrated meals and travel push it into territory it was never designed for.
Spotting the early signs
EGUS is rarely dramatic. Watch for: reluctance to finish hard feed, mild colic episodes after meals, dull coat, behavioural changes under the girth, performance plateau without an obvious cause. By the time weight loss is visible, the problem is usually advanced.
Management changes that move the needle
Before any supplement, the highest-impact interventions are: free-choice forage or near-continuous hay access, splitting concentrates into smaller meals, alfalfa with the morning feed (a natural buffer), and reducing time between haynet refills during travel.
Where a digestive supplement fits
A targeted supplement supports the stomach lining and hindgut microbiome but does not replace good management. GastroBalance combines pectin-lecithin complexes (mucosal protection), beta-glucans (immune support) and a stabilised live yeast (hindgut fermentation). Used alongside the management changes above, it shortens recovery and reduces recurrence.
When to call the vet
Persistent symptoms, weight loss or recurrent colic warrant gastroscopy. A supplement cannot diagnose. It can only support — and works best when the underlying picture is clear.