Gastroscopy

equine

Gastroscopy uses a video endoscopy to view and capture images of the horse’s stomach. It is used to identify and diagnose Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome. Mild sedation ensures the horse stays calm and stress free throughout the procedure.

Gastric Ulcers are much more common than you think, and can be exceptionally painful for your horse. Recent studies have shown up to 53% of leisure horses suffer from Gastric Ulcers.

Using the endoscope we are able to see whether ulcers are present, their type and severity. There are two main types of ulcer which occur in different parts of the stomach.

Gastric Ulcers can present themselves in many different ways, and sometimes we might not even realise that our horse has any. Common things that we hear are ‘My horse is just not performing as well.’ ‘They are really stroppy when being tacked up and/or aggressive when eating.’ ‘They keep bucking when I ask for canter’.

Gastric Ulcers are very common in horses and symptoms can easily be missed. These may include:
- Poor performance
- Changes in behaviour
- Weight loss / failure to maintain condition
- Colic
- Pain when girthing
- Poor coat condition

Following a positive diagnosis, we can offer a treatment regime and advice on management and feeding to help limit ulcers occurring in the future. Complete healing occurs in most cases following treatment and maintenance management. There is more information on Gastric Ulcers on our client information page, which you can see here.

If you would like to discuss having a gastroscopic examination with one of our vets, please call us on 01548 853322

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