Risk factors associated with equine gastric ulceration syndrome (EGUS) in 201 horses in Denmark.

This research examines factors related to the high prevalence of equine gastric ulceration syndrome (EGUS) in Danish horses, during winter season. The study specifically looks at the influence of feed, exercise level, and environment on the risk and severity of EGUS. The research findings indicate that components of the diet and certain management practices have a significant impact on the risk of EGUS in horses.

Research Methodology

• The study centered on a total of 201 horses, not in active race-training, representing 23 different stables from all 5 regions of Denmark.
• These horses were considered healthy and were not on medical treatment for EGUS.
• The evaluation of the horses involved endoscopically observed ulcer lesion scores. The scores were based on the number of ulcers present (0-4) and severity (0-5).
• To analyse the data, both univariate and multivariable mixed effects logistic regression models were developed, using the EGUS score as the dependent variable.
• Ulceration severity scores of 2 and above were deemed clinically significant and separate models were developed for horses with ulcers in either the glandular or non-glandular regions of the stomach or for those horses with non-glandular ulcers only.

Results and Findings

• In the population studied, 53% (107/201) of horses were graded as having EGUS of grade 2 or above. Out of these, 47% had ulcers in non-glandular areas.
• Three variables were significantly associated with EGUS of grade 2 or above: straw being the only forage available; exceeding 2 g/kg body weight of starch intake per day or more than 1 g/kg body weight per meal; and no water availability in the turn-out paddock.
• Risk of EGUS grade 2 or above in non-glandular areas increased when straw was the only forage available; when starch intake per meal exceeded 1 g/kg body weight; when water was not available in the turnout paddock, and when the interval between forage feeding was more than 6 hours.

Conclusions

• The study confirms that readily modifiable components of the horse’s diet can significantly impact the risk of EGUS. Changes in dietary and management practices can thus help to control the prevalence of EGUS in non-racehorses.
• Moreover, the differences observed in the multivariable models produced for all ulcers and non-glandular ulcers signify possible differences in the causes of ulcers in different regions of the stomach.