EQUINE glandular gastric disease (EGGD) is a complex syndrome that is distinct from gastric ulceration.

A number of studies now indicate that it is an inflammatory gastritis, predominantly at the gastric outflow, which has different causes and risk factors from gastric ulcers. As such, medication effective in treating gastric ulceration may be less effective for this specific condition.

New evidence-based guidelines published in the new equine veterinary journal UK Vet: Equine back in February, could help improve management of the condition in practice.

The new guidelines have been published by a group of equine medicine specialists, based on a review of published and unpublished evidence. The intention is to provide veterinary practitioners with up-to-date guidance on risk factors, diagnosis, treatment, dietary management and prevention of EGGD.

David Rendle, an internal medicine specialist at Rainbow Equine Hospital in North Yorkshire who chaired the group and is a consultant editor of UK Vet: Equine said: “Our findings challenge long-standing dogma on EGGD, a condition about which there is currently very little advice available to vets and horse owners.”

SIGNS

The clinical signs of EGGD are diverse and non-specific and may be mild or recurrent. The following are considered potential signs of EGGD:

  • Changes in temperament
  • Nervousness and/or aggression
  • Changes in rideability, including reduced willingness to work and reluctance to go forward
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Reduced appetite or altered eating patterns
  • Skin sensitivity which may manifest as biting of the flanks and/or resentment of girthing, grooming, leg aids or rugging
  • Colic — mild and possibly recurrent.

    • REDUCING RISK OF EGGD

    The total amount of exercise, and particularly the number of days of exercise per week, are likely to be more relevant to the risk of EGGD than the intensity or duration of exercise. There is limited evidence on which to make recommendations for feeding horses with EGGD; however, it would seem logical to maximise grazing and to ensure exercise is not performed on an empty stomach. Other ways to potentially reduce the risk of EGGD include:

  • Provide a minimum of two rest days from work per week if possible or provide regular rest periods
  • Turn-out where possible, provided the horse does not become stressed by turnout. Some horses that are not accustomed to turn-out may be less stressed in a stable environment
  • Minimise management changes and other potential stressors
  • Minimise changes in equine companions and human carers
  • Feed two litres of chaff or an equivalent volume of forage 30 mins prior to exercise

    • To read the guidelines in full visit www.magonlinelibrary.com.