Many horse owners assume that pawing is simply a bad habit or a sign of boredom, but for a horse with ulcers, it often signals pain and discomfort. Our editorial team wants to clarify that pawing the ground can be a direct behavioral response to gastric ulceration, especially when it occurs before or after feeding.
Horses with ulcers may paw to cope with the burning sensation in their stomach or to signal anticipation of food that might temporarily soothe the pain. Recognizing this link is crucial for proper management and treatment.
The Link Between Gastric Ulcers and Pawing Behavior
Pawing is a common sign of abdominal discomfort in horses, and those with gastric ulcers often exhibit this behavior as a response to pain. The ulcers are lesions in the stomach lining that become irritated by stomach acid, especially when the stomach is empty. Pawing can occur before feeding, as the horse anticipates food that will buffer the acid, or after eating, when acid production increases.
This behavior is not random; it is a deliberate action to communicate distress. Horses may also paw when stalled or during turnout, particularly if they are on a high grain diet or have irregular feeding schedules that exacerbate ulcer formation.
Other Behavioral Signs of Ulcers in Horses
Besides pawing, horses with ulcers may show other signs such as teeth grinding, flank watching, poor appetite, weight loss, or a dull coat. They might also be reluctant to be saddled or girthed, as pressure on the belly can worsen pain. In some cases, the horse may lie down more often or adopt a stretched posture to relieve discomfort.
These behaviors often occur together, and pawing is rarely the only symptom. Observing a pattern of pawing combined with any of these signs should prompt a discussion with your veterinarian about ulcer diagnosis.
Managing Pawing and Ulcers Through Diet and Routine
Dietary management is key to reducing ulcer-related pawing. Feeding small, frequent meals of forage helps maintain a constant stomach pH and reduces acid buildup. Limiting grain and providing free choice hay or pasture can minimize the pain that triggers pawing. Avoid long periods without food, as empty stomachs worsen ulcer pain.
Environmental enrichment, such as turnout with companions or slow feeders, can also reduce stress related pawing. However, if the pawing is driven by ulcer pain, only treating the ulcers with veterinary prescribed medications will stop the behavior. Always consult your vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.