The survey of the prevalence of Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS) in non-racing Thoroughbred horses in Thailand

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the prevalence, types, and risk factors of Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS) in non-racing Thoroughbred horses in Thailand. A total of 56 Thoroughbreds, aged 5 to 22 years (mean age: 12.43 ± 4.65 years), were included. Before sedation, a comprehensive history and physical examination were conducted. Gastroscopy was performed to identify gastric ulcers using the Equine Gastric Ulcer Council 0–4 scoring system for non-glandular ulcers, while glandular ulcers were assessed as present or absent. Data on breed, age, sex, activity status, behavior, appetite, and medical history were collected. The overall prevalence of gastric ulcers was found to be 83.93% (47/56), with non-glandular ulcers at 82.1% (46/56) and glandular ulcers at 33.9% (19/56). Notably, 33% (19/56) of the horses had ulcers in both regions. No significant differences were found between horses with and without ulcers regarding sex, history of colic, behavior change, lameness, diarrhea, or NSAID use. This study reports a higher prevalence of EGUS compared to previous findings.