A quick ulcer check

13 January 2020

Ulcers continue to be an issue for many horses. • Ad lib access to suitable forage is important, including in the paddock. If the grass is insufficient, hay will need to be put out. • If you soak hay, not for more than one hour directly before feeding, or it builds up acid. • Stress is an important contributor to ulcers. Horses need company, close physical contact, space and plenty to eat. Confinement, isolation and restricted forage all cause stress. • Lucerne buffers acid better than grass. If your horse cannot tolerate lucerne, Sainfoin Pellets or Sainfoin Brix are excellent alternatives. • Target Feeding, which is feeding directly before work, is important. A good scoop/0.5 kg or more of well-dampened Build & Shine is a good start. Feed directly after work, too. Ulcers are a major issue and your vet will help diagnose and treat, but is on-going management and feeding that will keep them at bay.