Animal Health Solution - a Henry Schein Animal Health magazine for veterinary professionals
Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1497698
You and your clients know that digestive conditions are a common cause of morbidity and mortality in horses. This is especially true in performance horses, in which gastrointestinal issues are associated with common management practices and can have significant impacts on athletic performance. 1 A client who understands digestive health is in a better position to care for their horse; therefore, client education is a key component of equine digestive health. As you conduct wellness visits, find time to educate your clients about equine gastric ulcers and hindgut health. EQUINE GASTRIC ULCER SYNDROME Equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS) can affect any horse, but it presents a significant risk in performance horses. Only 11% of pet "backyard" horses demonstrate evidence of EGUS, while up to 58% of show horses and nearly 100% of racehorses are affected. 2 The diagnosis of EGUS is often delayed, because vague clinical signs may be missed by owners and trainers. The owners of high-risk horses should be trained to monitor their horses closely for signs of EGUS, which may include weight loss, bruxism, mild/recurrent colic, abdominal discomfort after eating, training reluctance, behavioral changes, stereotypic behaviors, chronic diarrhea, and poor body/coat condition. 1-3 Any of these signs warrant a veterinary evaluation. Performance horses should be routinely screened for this condition via endoscopic evaluation of the esophagus, stomach, and proximal small intestine. 2 Even endoscopy may underestimate the prevalence of EGUS, but it is the best diagnostic test available at this time. 3 Ulcers should be inspected visually, with findings documented using a recognized scoring system. 1,2 Some clients may request empirical treatment for EGUS, in place of endoscopy. This is a not recommended, for several reasons. First, the treatment of EGUS can be costly. More importantly, however, treatment protocols vary depending on ulcer location. Equine squamous gastric disease is typically treated with omeprazole or other antacids, while glandular disease often responds poorly to antacids and requires sucralfate. 1 Obtaining an accurate diagnosis is essential to appropriately treat EGUS. Management changes can help prevent EGUS. Long-term, low-dose omeprazole may be beneficial, but lifestyle changes are likely to have a greater impact. 1 Work with your clients to increase the amount of time that horses have access to pasture, while decreasing the amount of time horses spend stalled. If a horse must be fed grain or a concentrate, aim for small, frequent meals to minimize dramatic changes in gastric pH. 1 Working with your client to enact these changes, when possible, can reduce or eliminate the need for long-term antacid use. 7 Product and Promotions Guide