GastroGard™ (Omeprazole) Paste

Paste medications are thick and sticky, usually given by mouth using a syringe or tube. They’re often used for dewormers or other oral meds in horses, dogs, and cats. The key is to aim for the back of the mouth so your pet swallows the paste instead of spitting it out.

For Horses:

1. Set the dose on the syringe if it has markings (usually based on weight).
2. Stand beside your horse, not in front, and have someone hold them if possible.
3. Gently insert your thumb into the side of the horse’s mouth (between the teeth) to open it.
4. Insert the syringe into that gap and squirt the paste toward the back of the tongue.
5. Lift the horse’s head slightly and encourage swallowing by stroking the throat or gently blowing on the nostrils.
6. Watch for licking or chewing—that means they swallowed. If paste spills out, check how much was lost and contact your vet if unsure.
7. You can offer a little water afterward and reward them with a treat like a carrot if allowed.

For Dogs & Cats:

1. Gently open your pet’s mouth or slip the syringe into the side of it.
2. Aim toward the back of the tongue and squirt the paste in.
3. Hold the mouth closed briefly, and rub the throat or blow gently on the nose to encourage swallowing.
4. Give praise or a treat afterward to make it a positive experience.

Aftercare:

1. Wipe your pet’s mouth if needed.
2. Clean or recap the syringe as instructed.
3. Store the tube according to label directions.

Tip: Paste can feel weird to pets at first. For horses, try giving applesauce by syringe ahead of time so they get used to the sensation.

GastroGard utilizes a proton pump inhibitor strategy to manage gastric ulcers. It is a prescription-authorized oral paste frequently considered for horses presented with stomach ulcers.

The actions described here reflect the product's FDA-approved labeling; your veterinarian determines the appropriate use for your animal.

Prescription only. Use only under the direction of a licensed veterinarian. This information is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, prescribing or monitoring.

Commonly observed effects of GastroGard™ administration are infrequent, though some owners have noted mild behavioral shifts or transient changes in appetite during the initial phase of the protocol. Because the medication influences the pH of the stomach, your veterinarian may monitor for shifts in the digestive microbiome during long-term use. If you observe persistent loose stools, signs of physical distress or a significant lack of interest in feed, contact your veterinarian promptly.

This medication is typically used with extra caution in horses with known hepatic impairment, as the liver is the primary site of omeprazole metabolism. The safety of GastroGard™ has not been fully evaluated in breeding stallions or in pregnant and lactating mares, so veterinarians weigh these factors carefully before prescribing. Before starting a protocol, ensure your veterinarian has a complete history of all other prescriptions and supplements your horse is receiving, as omeprazole can interact with medications that require an acidic environment for absorption, such as certain antifungals. Your veterinarian is the right person to provide guidance on the necessary duration of use and any specific environmental management strategies to ensure the approach remains suitable for your horse's individual health status.