Equine asthma in horses - causes, symptoms & treatment

What is equine asthma? Causes & development

Equine asthma is a chronic respiratory disease in horses that is triggered by allergic reactions to environmental stimuli such as dust, pollen or mold spores. The disease leads to a narrowing of the airways, mucus formation and inflammation, causing the affected horse to suffer increasingly from shortness of breath. In the past, similar diseases were also referred to as RAO (Recurrent Airway Obstruction) or COB (Chronic Obstructive Bronchitis), but today they are generally referred to as equine asthma.

➡️ Video tip: Equine asthma - when every breath costs strength! Find out why up to 80% of domesticated horses are affected, what effects the disease has and how you can help your horse - an important insight into respiratory health!

Equine asthma vs. COPD & COB - What's the difference?

Many horse owners are unsure when they hear terms such as equine asthma, COPD and COB. In fact, these are different names for similar respiratory diseases, but they differ in the details.

Briefly explained:

• Equine asthma is the term commonly used today for chronic respiratory diseases in horses.
• COB (chronic obstructive bronchitis) was an older term for the same clinical picture.
• COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) is a human disease and is no longer used for horses.

Causes: Allergies, environmental factors & genetic predisposition

The main causes of equine asthma are environmental factors and allergic reactions. Horses are particularly sensitive to fine particles in the air they breathe.

Risk factors for equine asthma:

💡 Tip: The best prevention is a dust-free environment. Hay should be steamed or fed wet, and stable hygiene plays a major role. Good ventilation and daily grazing help to keep the respiratory tract healthy.

Why are more and more horses suffering from equine asthma?

The number of horses with respiratory diseases is constantly increasing. Whereas in the past it was mainly older horses that were affected, today young animals are also becoming increasingly ill. This is due to a combination of changed husbandry conditions, environmental factors and genetic aspects.

1. modern livestock housing: less fresh air, more dust pollution

Horses are running animals and are adapted to life in open spaces. Today, keeping horses in closed stables with limited air circulation leads to higher levels of dust and ammonia. Especially in boarding stables with a high density of horses, the air quality is often problematic. Dust from bedding, hay and feed enters the respiratory tract and can trigger inflammation.

➡️ Problem: Poor air quality promotes chronic respiratory diseases.

2. changed feeding methods: Less grazing, more dusty hay

In the past, horses spent most of their time grazing and eating fresh grass with hardly any dust. Today, grazing is often restricted and the main diet consists of dry hay and concentrates.

• Hay can be dusty or moldy, which irritates the lungs.
• Concentrated feed instead of natural exercise: Horses stand still for longer, no longer cough up phlegm.
• Inferior haylage or silage may also contain mold spores.

➡️ Problem: Dusty hay is one of the biggest triggers for equine asthma.

3. increasing environmental pollution: particulate matter and exhaust fumes pollute the airways

‍Airquality has deteriorated in recent decades due to particulate matter, exhaust fumes and environmental toxins. Horses are particularly exposed to increased levels of particulate matter near industrial areas, highways and farms.

• Flower pollen, pesticides and pollutants in the air increase susceptibility to allergies.
• Exhaust fumes and fine dust settle in the lungs and can promote chronic inflammation.
• Air pollution can even weaken the immune system and make horses more susceptible to respiratory infections.

➡️ Problem: Horses with sensitive airways react more strongly to environmental toxins.

‍4. Higher life expectancy: more diagnoses, more chronic diseases

nHorsesare living longer these days than they did a few decades ago. Better medical care and optimized feeding mean that diseases are detected more frequently. Chronic respiratory diseases such as equine asthma often occur in older horses, as permanent damage to the lungs develops over the years.

➡️ Problem: The older the horse, the higher the risk of chronic respiratory problems.

Recognizing equine asthma: Symptoms & diagnosis

Equine asthma develops gradually and is often only recognized late. Particularly in the early stages, the symptoms are unspecific and can be mistaken for a harmless cough or a mild cold. The earlier the disease is detected, the better it can be treated.

Typical symptoms - from cough to nasal discharge

Horses with equine asthma show various symptoms that vary depending on the severity and course of the disease. While some horses only cough occasionally, others suffer from severe shortness of breath and chronic nasal discharge.

Common symptoms of equine asthma:

Chronic vs. acute equine asthma - when does it become dangerous?

Equine asthma is a progressive disease that can slowly worsen over months or years. In some cases, however, an acute asthma attack occurs suddenly, which can be life-threatening for the horse. It is therefore important to know the differences between chronic and acute asthma and to know when to act quickly.

Chronic equine asthma: a gradual process

Most horses with equine asthma initially show only mild symptoms, which are often not perceived as worrying. An occasional cough after eating or during training is often dismissed as "normal". However, the condition worsens over time:

Typical signs of a chronic course:

• Frequent coughing, especially after contact with hay or dust
• Nasal discharge, usually clear or slightly whitish
• Slightly increased respiratory rate, even at rest
• Declining performance, horse tires more quickly
• Increased mucus in the airways that is difficult to cough up

Chronic asthma usually develops over several months or years and, if left untreated, leads to an increasing narrowing of the airways. If the disease is not recognized and treated in time, it can progress to a severe, irreversible stage.

Acute equine asthma: when the air suddenly stops flowing

While chronic asthma worsens gradually, an acute asthma attack occurs suddenly and often without warning. The airways cramp up in a short space of time, making it difficult for the horse to breathe.

Signs of an acute asthma attack:

• Horse struggles for air, breathing is strained and shallow
• Whistling or rattling breathing noises
• Strong abdominal breathing, clearly visible "vapor channel"
• Increased respiratory rate, extremely sluggish even at rest
• Panic reactions: Horse appears restless or shows fear of suffocation
• Nostrils widened considerably to take in more air

An acute asthma attack is a veterinary emergency that must be treated immediately! Without quick help, the horse could suffocate in the worst case scenario.

Chronic or acute asthma - which form does my horse have?

Chronic asthma can often be kept stable with good management and a dust-free environment. However, acute asthma attacks require immediate action to avoid life-threatening situations.

How does the vet make a diagnosis? Examination methods explained

The diagnosis of equine asthma requires careful examination, as the symptoms are often initially non-specific and can be mistaken for a harmless cold. The vet will use various methods to assess the airways and rule out other possible causes such as infections or anatomical problems.

➡️ Video tip: Equine asthma - how vets make the diagnosis! Dr. med. vet. Julia Engels explains how vets diagnose equine asthma, which examination methods are used and which next steps follow for targeted treatment - an important insight into diagnostics!

1. clinical examination

The first step is a detailed general examination, during which the vet checks the following points:

• Respiratory rate and breath sounds
• Nostrils and nasal discharge (color, consistency, quantity)
• Abdominal breathing and steam channel
• General condition and performance

By listening to the lungs with a stethoscope, the vet can obtain initial indications of mucus accumulations or constrictions in the airways.

‍2. endoscopy of the airways

‍Thetrachea and bronchi can be examined directly using an endoscope. A thin tube with a camera is inserted into the airways via the nostrils or mouth. This allows mucus deposits, inflammation or anatomical changes to be detected.

‍3. bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL)

‍Lung lavage is one of the most reliable methods for diagnosing equine asthma. A small amount of fluid is introduced into the lungs and aspirated again to analyze cells and inflammatory markers. Depending on the cell composition, it can be determined whether an allergic or inflammatory reaction is present.Note box:
BAL is particularly helpful in distinguishing chronic from acute asthma. Horses with severe equine asthma often have an increased number of inflammatory cells in the fluid sample.

‍4. X-ray and ultrasound

‍X-raysor ultrasound examinations can be used to visualize structural changes in the lungs. In advanced equine asthma in particular, typical compaction and scarring can be seen in the lungs.

‍5. airway tests and stress tests

‍Somevets carry out special breathing tests to assess lung function more accurately. This involves measuring the respiratory rate before and after an exercise situation to determine how strongly the airways react to exertion.Tip box:
Early diagnosis can prevent equine asthma from worsening. The earlier targeted treatment begins, the better the chances of maintaining stable airway function for as long as possible.

Life expectancy: Can a horse with equine asthma live to an old age?

The life expectancy of a horse with equine asthma depends heavily on the early detection and management of the disease. Although equine asthma cannot be cured, with the right care and treatment, an affected horse can live a largely symptom-free life for many years.

Factors that influence life expectancy

• Early diagnosis: The earlier the problem is recognized, the better it can be treated.
• Optimal housing conditions: A dust-free environment is crucial.
• Regular exercise: Supports the removal of mucus from the lungs.
• Targeted drug therapy: Inhalation therapy and anti-inflammatory medication can help to control the symptoms.

How long can a horse with equine asthma live?

‍Withconsistent treatment and adaptation of husbandry, life expectancy can almost match that of a healthy horse. However, horses that do not receive adapted husbandry or therapy often suffer from recurrent respiratory infections and an increasing deterioration in lung function.

Treating equine asthma: The best therapies & medications

Equine asthma cannot be cured, but with targeted therapy and good management, the symptoms can often be significantly reduced. The treatment consists of several components:

1. Drug therapy to relieve acute symptoms and control inflammation
2. Inhalation therapy to deliver medication to the lungs in a targeted manner
3. Housing and feeding adjustments to minimize irritants in the environment
4. Alternative and supportive treatments to provide additional relief for the airways

Drug treatment: What really helps?

In horses with equine asthma, various medications can be used to widen the airways, reduce inflammation and loosen mucus. A distinction is made between short-term emergency medication and long-term therapies to stabilize the airways.

Important medications for the treatment of equine asthma:

When is cortisone necessary?

Cortisone is one of the most effective medications for equine asthma, as it reduces inflammation and inhibits mucus production. It is administered either as a tablet, injection or inhalant. However, long-term systemic administration of cortisone can cause side effects such as muscle wasting or laminitis. Many vets therefore prefer local application by inhalation to minimize the strain on the body.

Inhalation for equine asthma: comparison of methods & devices

Inhalation therapy is one of the most effective treatment methods for equine asthma, as it delivers the medication directly to the lungs. This means that the dosage can be reduced and side effects minimized.

Methods of inhalation therapy:

Which device is the best?

• Electric nebulizers produce a fine mist that reaches deep into the bronchial tubes.
• Asthma sprays with special inhalation masks are easy to use.
• Brine chambers and ultrasonic nebulizers help to loosen mucus and clear the airways.

Alternative & complementary therapies: From brine chambers to homeopathy

In addition to conventional medical treatments, there are various complementary methods that can help to relieve the respiratory tract and strengthen the immune system.

Brine inhalation & halotherapy

• Salty air has an anti-inflammatory and expectorant effect.
• Brine chambers or special inhalation devices can help to alleviate the symptoms.

Acupuncture & Physiotherapy

• Acupuncture can promote blood circulation in the airways and relieve cramps.
• Physiotherapy with targeted stretching exercises improves the breathing and mobility of the rib muscles.

Herbs and homeopathic remedies

• Thyme, ivy and licorice root have an expectorant effect.
• Globules such as Antimonium arsenicosum are used in homeopathy to support the respiratory tract.

The treatment of equine asthma requires a combination of medication, inhalation and postural adjustment. Bronchodilators, cortisone and mucolytics help to control the symptoms. Inhalation therapy is a particularly effective and gentle method. Brine inhalation, herbs and physiotherapy can be used as supportive measures.

Keeping & feeding: What is the best way for a horse with equine asthma to live?

Proper housing and feeding play a crucial role in the management of equine asthma. Dust, mold and poor air quality are the biggest triggers for respiratory diseases. The horse's environment should therefore be kept as dust-free as possible. In addition to appropriate stable management, choosing the right feed also helps to relieve the respiratory tract.

Low-dust bedding & optimum stable climate

A dust-free stable is one of the most important factors for horses with asthma. Bedding, hay and a lack of ventilation in particular can put a strain on the airways.

Which bedding is the best choice?

Not all bedding is suitable for horses with asthma. While straw is often too dusty, there are alternatives that produce significantly less dust.

Comparison: Which bedding is suitable for horses with asthma?

💡 Tip: Linen straw or wood pellets are particularly recommended as they are almost dust-free and relieve the respiratory tract.

Roughage: hay steamer, wet hay or haylage?

Roughage is the most common cause of dust exposure. It is therefore essential to find a low-dust alternative without jeopardizing the horse's digestion and nutrient supply.

Which feeding method is best for equine asthma?

Steamed hay is the best choice for horses with asthma as it is virtually dust-free and removes mold spores. If a hay steamer is not available, wet hay can be an alternative, but should be fed immediately to avoid mold growth.

Can a horse with equine asthma still be ridden?

Many horse owners ask themselves whether a horse with asthma can still be exercised. The answer depends on the severity of the disease and the individual condition of the horse.

• Mild equine asthma: The horse can usually continue to be ridden normally.
• Moderately severe asthma: Riding is possible, but at an appropriate pace and with longer warm-up and recovery phases.
• Severe equine asthma: severely affected horses should only be moved gently, as heavy exertion can trigger respiratory distress.

Riding is possible if the horse is symptom-free and shows no respiratory distress. The load should be adjusted individually.

Training & exercise: What else is possible?

Regular exercise is essential for horses suffering from asthma, as it supports the removal of mucus from the lungs and promotes general fitness. The training should be designed in such a way that it promotes breathing without overloading the horse.

Recommended forms of training for horses with asthma:

• Cross-country riding in fresh air to ventilate the lungs
• Lunge at a calm pace to promote even breathing
• Cavaletti and ground work to maintain the flexibility of the rib muscles
• Loosening stretching exercises to avoid tension due to difficult breathing

What should be avoided?

• Intensive exposure to high humidity or heavy pollen counts
• Riding in a dusty hall without good ventilation
• Forced breaks over several weeks, as this promotes mucus production

A well-managed horse with asthma can often remain active for a long time. Exercise helps to strengthen the lungs and keep the airways clear.

Emergency: What to do in the event of an asthma attack in a horse?

A severe asthma attack in a horse can be life-threatening. If the airways suddenly become severely constricted, the horse can no longer get enough oxygen. In such cases, quick and level-headed action is crucial to save the horse's life.

Symptoms of a severe asthma attack

An asthma attack can develop gradually or occur suddenly. Typical signs are

• Significantly more difficult breathing, even at rest
• Strongly flared nostrils and tense abdominal muscles
• Rattling or whistling breathing noises
• Increased respiratory rate, visible effort with each inhalation and exhalation
• Panic reactions such as restlessness or sweating
• Blue discolored mucous membranes (indication of oxygen deficiency)

Depending on the severity, an asthma attack can escalate within a few minutes. If the horse panics or finds it extremely difficult to breathe, there is an acute danger to life.

When should the vet be called?

Not every coughing fit requires an emergency call immediately, but there are clear signs that a vet should be contacted immediately:

• Sudden, severe shortness of breath that does not improve even at rest
• Strong abdominal breathing and pronounced vapor channel
• Panic or collapse, the horse appears disoriented or sways
• Blue discolored mucous membranes (indication of oxygen deficiency)
• No improvement despite own measures

A severe asthma attack is an emergency and can be life-threatening. First aid measures such as fresh air, rest and emergency medication can help until the vet arrives. In the long term, appropriate husbandry, feeding and therapy are the best protection to minimize the risk of severe attacks.

How to manage equine asthma in the long term

Equine asthma is a chronic disease that cannot be cured, but can be easily controlled. The key to a life as free of symptoms as possible lies in a combination of early diagnosis, targeted treatment and optimal management of husbandry and feeding.

Important measures for the long-term control of equine asthma:

• Create a dust-free environment, for example by keeping stables open or using well-ventilated stalls with low-dust bedding
• Adapt the feed, especially with steamed hay or high-quality haylage
• Targeted drug therapy according to veterinary recommendation, such as inhalation therapy, bronchodilators and cortisone
• Regular, moderate exercise to promote lung function and support the removal of mucus
• Sufficient access to pasture and fresh air to minimize exposure to stable dust

Why is early treatment so important?
The earlier equine asthma is detected, the better the disease can be controlled. If left untreated, it can lead to irreversible lung damage, which significantly restricts the horse's quality of life and greatly reduces its performance, but with the right treatment and management, many affected horses can lead an active and largely symptom-free life for years. Consistent management is crucial to avoid severe disease progression and acute emergencies.

Equine asthma: The most important questions and answers

How does a horse get equine asthma?

‍Equineasthma is triggered by hypersensitivity of the airways to environmental stimuli. Common causes are dust, mold spores, pollen or ammonia fumes in poorly ventilated stables. Long-term exposure to these irritants can lead to chronic inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which permanently narrows the airways.

What to feed for equine asthma?

‍Horseswith equine asthma should be given dust-free feed if possible. Vaporized hay is recommended as it reduces mould spores and dust. Alternatively, high-quality haylage can be fed. Concentrated feed should also be low in dust, and additives such as mucolytic herbs can have a supportive effect.

Is equine asthma hereditary?

‍Thereare indications that a genetic predisposition may play a role. Horses from lines where respiratory disease is more common may be more susceptible. Nevertheless, environmental factors are the main trigger and adapted husbandry can reduce the risk.

How bad is equine asthma?

‍Theseverity of the disease varies greatly. In mild cases, only occasional symptoms occur, which can be well controlled by optimized husbandry. In severe cases, however, the horse can suffer permanently from respiratory distress, which severely restricts its quality of life and performance. Without treatment, the disease can progress and, in the worst case, become life-threatening.

Why is my horse breathing heavily at rest?

‍Hardbreathing at rest can be a sign of respiratory problems such as equine asthma. Possible causes include constricted bronchial tubes, excessive mucus production or inflammation of the airways. Poor air quality in the stable can also make breathing difficult. A visit to the vet is advisable to clarify the cause.

Why does a horse pull up its belly?

‍Whena horse visibly pulls up its belly, it uses its abdominal muscles more to support breathing. This is a typical sign of difficult breathing, as occurs in equine asthma. The so-called abdominal breathing is particularly noticeable in advanced cases.

What is the vapor channel in equine asthma?

‍Thevapor groove is a visible depression along the abdominal muscles caused by sustained increased work of breathing. Horses with chronic asthma often have to use their abdominal muscles to push air out of the lungs. This results in the development of increased musculature along the lower abdominal line, known as the vapor groove.