Gastric ulceration in horses Flashcards
What might increase the physiological need to chew in horses?
Fibre restriction
What is the benefit of added forage whilst travelling?
increases saliva production
*buffering for the splash back from the lower stomach during fast work
*improves fibre matt
*Helps hydration
How would you best advise nutritional support for gastric ulceration syndrome?
ad lib fibre, * in small haynets frequently.2. Good quality hay in small meals * increase chewing & saliva production * decreases gastrin produced cf large haynets/ lower quality forage.3. Adjust haylage quantities, * water content vs adequate fibre intake4. Advise adding Alfalfa Chaff (protein and minerals), * to small meals or feed before a meal.5. Ensure horse has 2-3 hrs access to grazing/day
What is the downside of trickle feeding?
in terms of ESGD
Prolonged exposure of the gastric mucosa to acid
What is the effect of feeding more than 1g starch per kgBW?
Increased risk of colic due to the starch in the hindgut
What is the benefit of cooking starch?
cooking starch gelatinises it and makes it more digestible* Cooking starch unravels the complex starch molecule and allows the enzymes to break down the links between the glucos
What dietary changes increase the risk of colic?
- Changes in hay
- New batches of hay
- Change in the amount of grain
- Increased concentrate levels
What should you advise in terms of dietary changes and reducing the risk of colic?
- Slower changes allow the aborptive capacity to develop
- Increased SI digestion
- Allows the microbiome to adapt
