Looking for sign of ulcers can be tricky. Research has shown that there is very little behavior difference between horses with and without ulcers. Here are some physical and behavioral signs you can look for. Just remember if your horse isn’t exhibiting bad behavior or decreased performance doesn’t mean they don’t have ulcers.The only sure way to know is to have your horse scoped.
Signs of Possible Ulcers
- Decrease in appetite
- Eats food more rapidly when fed late
- Weight loss and poor body condition
- Dull hair coat
- Mild bouts of colic
- Mental dullness
- Change in overall attitude
- Decreased performance
- Lying down more than normal
- Irritable when cinching
- Biting when sides are touched or brushed
- Kicking out when riding with leg presure or spur