Horses With Asthma – Possible Symptoms and What to Do

Equine asthma, also known as “heaves” or chronic obstructive bronchitis, is a common condition in horses. It is a chronic respiratory disease caused by inflammation of the airways.

Symptoms of Equine Asthma:

Horses with asthma show a variety of symptoms that may indicate respiratory problems. Some of the most common symptoms are:

  • Coughing: horses with asthma often cough, especially after exercise or when breathing in dusty air.
  • Breathing difficulties: Difficulty breathing is a clear sign of equine asthma. Horses may breathe faster and may have prolonged exhalation.
  • Nasal discharge: Clear or yellowish nasal discharge may indicate inflammation of the airways.
  • Decreased performance: Horses with asthma may lose performance due to their respiratory problems. They may become exhausted more quickly and show reduced endurance.
  • Changes in breathing sounds: Whistling or rattling sounds may occur during inhalation and exhalation.

What to do:

Be sure to have your horse examined by a veterinarian – an expert can definitely give you advice and support you and your horse, especially with medication.

It is important that the medication and dosage is prescribed by your vet as each horse’s individual needs can be different. An accurate diagnosis and regular veterinary care are crucial for successful treatment of equine asthma.

But you can also help your horse. For example, by ensuring a dust-free environment.

How do I create a dust-free environment for my horse?

A dust-free environment can bring your asthmatic horse a lot of relief.

Here is a checklist of things you can do:

  • Use dust-free bedding, such as flax, peat moss or wood shavings.
  • Soak the hay in water before feeding. This will bind the dust in the hay.
  • Store your horse’s hay in a well-ventilated place, this also reduces dust and spores in the air.
  • Ensure good air ventilation in the stable through open windows, doors and slits.
  • Moisten dry feed to bind dust.
  • Clean and dust your barn regularly.
  • Avoid increased exposure to places with a high allergy load.

Asthma x Happie

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Track your horse's symptoms in the Happie Horse App to keep track of the course and severity of the illness.

You can also log medications in the app,  in order to receive daily reminders.

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