Squamous ulcers and glandular ulcers are the two most frequently reported forms of equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS). Although both occur in the stomach, they form in different regions and develop for different reasons, making correct identification essential for proper treatment and management.
This report outlines the key differences between the two ulcer types, including causes, clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment response, and prevention. The goal is to provide a clear, factual overview that reflects current veterinary findings and field observations.
Squamous Ulcers: How They Form and Why They Occur
Veterinary experts report that squamous ulcers typically develop in the upper, unprotected portion of the horse’s stomach. This region lacks a mucus barrier, making it vulnerable when stomach acid splashes upward—especially during intense exercise or long periods without forage.
Common signs include appetite loss, behavioral changes, girthiness, poor performance, and weight loss.
Researchers have linked squamous ulcer development to irregular feeding schedules, high-starch diets, prolonged fasting, and the stress associated with training and travel.
Glandular Ulcers: A Deeper, More Complex Condition
Glandular ulcers develop in the lower, acid-producing section of the stomach, where a natural mucus barrier normally provides protection. When stress, inflammation, or compromised blood flow weakens that barrier, ulcers begin to form.
Clinicians note that symptoms of glandular disease are often subtle—slow eating, mild recurrent colic, dull coat condition, or reluctance to work. Because signs are less obvious than squamous ulcers, gastroscopy remains the most reliable diagnostic tool.
Key Differences Between the Two Ulcer Types
Veterinary reports highlight several clear distinctions:
- Location: upper squamous region vs. lower glandular region
- Cause: acid splash and fasting vs. weakened mucosal defenses
- Symptoms: more obvious behavioral signs vs. subtle clinical indicators
- Treatment response: squamous ulcers generally heal faster; glandular ulcers require longer, targeted therapy
Understanding these differences ensures more accurate diagnosis and a more appropriate treatment plan.
Diagnosis and Treatment
A gastroscopic examination is considered the gold standard for identifying the location and severity of both squamous and glandular ulcers.
Treatment commonly includes acid-reducing medication, mucosal-support therapy for glandular disease, dietary adjustments, stress-reduction protocols, and increased forage availability. While squamous ulcers often respond quickly, glandular ulcers may require extended medical management.
Prevention and Management Recommendations
Equine specialists recommend several management practices to reduce ulcer risk:
- Provide continuous access to forage
- Avoid long periods of fasting
- Limit high-grain diets
- Offer small amounts of feed before exercise
- Maintain a consistent daily routine
- Ensure adequate turnout and reduced environmental stress
These practices support more stable gastric conditions and reduce the frequency of ulcer recurrence.
Final Thoughts
Veterinarians emphasize that recognizing the difference between squamous ulcers and glandular ulcers is critical to protecting a horse’s digestive health. With timely diagnosis, appropriate therapy, and effective management, most horses can recover and maintain strong long-term performance and wellbeing.
