Social Stress Plays a Role in Equine Digestive Upset

to consider. Dental problems worm infestations colitis as well as gender and breed were taken into consideration but were not proposed as significant contributors to this problem.
There are several other factors that may be considered
An empty stomach. The horses stomach secretes acid continuously. Chewing produces saliva a natural antacid. Without a steady supply of forage acid is not neutralized and can trickle down to the large colon causing irritation and excess fluid accumulation.
Ulcers. Ulcers throughout the gastrointestinal tract can impact digestive health. Ulcers are common in horses who are stalled exercised on an empty stomach under stress or experiencing changes in environment and circumstances.
Changing from pasture to hay. During the winter months many horses rely on hay as their forage source after months of pasture grazing. Hay is coarser and requires increased mechanical stress inside the gastrointestinal tract potentially releasing more fluid from the digested material.
Changing from hay to pasture. Spring grasses can harbor bacteria and fungi that are unfamiliar to the horses system potentially creating inflammation within the hindgut.
Feed sensitivities and allergies. There may be an ingredient in the horses feed that is creating an allergic reaction or inducing inflammation.
Possible solutions
Your horse should always have access to pasture andor hay. Restricting forage creates a hormonal response that leads to oxidative stress inflammation ulcers and metabolic disorders such insulin resistance obesity and equine Cushings Disease.
Gradually allow your horse to change from pasture to hay and vice versa. Add a prebiotic while making this transition.
Allow your horse to have more wholesome foods in the diet by eliminating commercially fortified feeds that utilize chemical preservatives.
Provide nutrients that are known to reduce inflammation and protect the gastrointestinal lining such as omega 3s B vitamins yeast and antioxidants.