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Riding your horse on an empty stomach can significantly increase the risk of gastric ulcers, particularly in the sensitive non-glandular (squamous) region of the stomach. Understanding how a horse’s digestive system works helps explain why forage before exercise is so important.
When a horse exercises on an empty stomach, the natural gastric acid produced in the glandular portion of the stomach can splash upward into the non-glandular region. Unlike the glandular section, which has protective mucus and bicarbonate to buffer the acid, the non-glandular area lacks these defences. This makes it highly vulnerable to damage from acid exposure.
Repeated exposure to gastric acid in the non-glandular region can cause irritation, inflammation, and ulceration. Over time, this can lead to equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS), a common and painful condition affecting performance, behaviour, and appetite.
Feeding hay or pasture before riding helps create what’s known as an “acid cap”, a fibrous mat that floats on top of the stomach contents. This natural barrier helps prevent acid from splashing upwards, reducing the likelihood of ulcer formation during movement.
Fibre plays several critical roles in maintaining equine digestive health:
To reduce the risk of gastric ulcers:
Feeding your horse before exercise isn't just a good habit, it's a critical part of ulcer prevention and digestive health. By providing forage before riding, you support the natural function of the equine digestive system, reduce the risk of acid splash and ulcer formation, and help your horse feel and perform at their best.
