Gastric ulcers are a common concern in horses, especially those under stress from training, travel, or competition. This guide highlights five well-regarded supplements designed to support gastric health, buffer stomach acid, and promote a calm, comfortable gut. Each option below is evaluated for digestibility, active ingredients, and potential benefits for ulcer prevention and relief. The summaries include a quick comparison table to help you choose a product that fits your horse’s routine and needs.
| Product | Main Benefit | Form | |
|---|---|---|---|
| MagnaGard | Calming gut support and ulcer prevention | Powder | 45-day supply (6 lb) |
| MagnaGard Plus | Ulcer relief with Omega 3s and minerals | Powder | 45-day supply (6 lb) |
| REDMOND Daily Gold Pellets | Acid buffering and gut support with calming effects | Pellets | 15 lb bag |
| GastroMend XC | Drug-free, tissue repair promotion for ulcers | Powder (gastrointestinal supplement) | 30 servings |
| Jeffers Healthy Gut | Liquid digestive support for ulcers and gut balance | Liquid | 32 oz (approximately 32 days) |
MagnaGard Gastric Support Supplement (Powder, 6 lb)
MagnaGard is formulated to calm high-strung horses by soothing the gut, with magnesium as a natural calming mineral. The 6-pound bag provides a 45-day supply of MagnaGard Plus powder, targeting ulcer prevention by buffering excess acid and delivering essential trace minerals. It also serves as a calming aid to help horses focus during tasks, training, or competition. The product emphasizes gut comfort and general digestive support as part of ulcer prevention strategies.
Corta-Flx U-Gard Pellets by Manna Pro
Corta-Flx U-Gard Pellets are designed to maintain gastric health with live probiotics and digestive enzymes to aid nutrient absorption and gut balance. They help maintain proper gastric pH, reduce digestive upset, and support a healthy stomach lining—beneficial for horses in training or under stress who are prone to ulcers.
MagnaGard Plus Gastric Support With Omega 3s
MagnaGard Plus adds Omega 3s and Vitamin E to the standard MagnaGard formula, supporting coat and hoof health while delivering trace minerals such as calcium and magnesium. The Omega 3 enrichment aims to promote overall well-being and gut comfort, making it a well-rounded option for ulcer-prone horses needing both digestive support and extra connective tissue nutrition.
REDMOND Daily Gold Pellets
Daily Gold Pellets provide digestive buffering and toxin binding, supporting a healthy gut microbiome and nutrient absorption. In addition to digestive stabilization, the product is noted for natural calming effects, which can help reduce stress-related digestive discomfort and ulcer symptoms during seasonal changes, training peaks, or travel.
GastroMend XC
GastroMend XC is a natural, drug-free supplement formulated to promote gastric healing and improve gut lining integrity. It emphasizes collagen and fibronectin production to repair the stomach lining and support healthy acid balance, offering a non-pharmacological approach to managing gastric ulcers in horses.
Jeffers Healthy Gut Gastric Support
Jeffers Healthy Gut is a liquid digestive supplement designed for easy daily feeding and gut balance. It is suitable for horses prone to ulcers and can be integrated into regular feeding routines with a simple dosage. Its palatable liquid format simplifies administration for horses with feeding sensitivities and supports ongoing gastric comfort.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Selecting A Gastric Ulcer Supplement
- Active ingredients and mechanism: Look for buffering agents (such as calcium carbonate), probiotics, digestive enzymes, omega-3 fatty acids, and natural anti-inflammatory components. Assess whether the product targets acid balance, gut lining repair, or stress-related gut issues.
- Form and ease of administration: Powders, pellets, liquids, and capsules each have trade-offs. Choose a format that fits your horse’s feeding routine and administration preferences to ensure consistent usage.
- Evidence and safety: Prioritize products with veterinary backing, clear ingredient sourcing, and FEI-safe or drug-free claims when applicable. Check for banned substances if your horse competes in regulated events.
- Constancy and duration: Some formulas are designed for ongoing daily use, while others may be used episodically during travel or high-stress periods. Align product duration with your horse’s stress cycle and training schedule.
- Palatability and acceptance: Horses vary in taste preferences. Consider gradual introductions or flavored formulations if initial acceptance is a concern to maintain adherence.
- Interactions with other supplements: If your horse already takes vitamins, minerals, or joint supplements, ensure no duplicate minerals (e.g., excessive magnesium) or potential interactions.
- Veterinary guidance: Ulcer management often benefits from a veterinary plan. Use these products as part of a broader strategy that may include dietary adjustments and medical evaluation when ulcers are suspected.
Notes: This article presents information about several products marketed for equine gastric health and ulcer management. It is not a substitute for veterinary advice. Always consult a veterinarian to determine the best approach for your horse’s specific condition and confirm any feed or supplement compatibility with existing programs.