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Equine asthma is a chronic condition affecting around 14% of horses and ponies in the UK. Characterised by laboured breathing, coughing, wheezing and nasal discharge, asthma is an allergic reaction.
Whilst an acute asthma attack can require urgent veterinary treatment, asthmatic horses and ponies can live comfortably with rapid diagnosis and the right management.
This guide outlines what equine asthma is, the main symptoms of equine asthma, as well as what can be done to manage asthma in horses.
Equine asthma, otherwise known as Recurrent Airway Obstruction (RAO), COPD, “broken wind” or “heaves”, is an allergic reaction. It is usually triggered by dust, mould, pollen or fungal spores, causing the airway to become inflamed. This causes the airways to narrow and mucus production to increase. These problems then lead to the symptoms of asthma.
Equine Asthma is a chronic condition, but it can flare up suddenly and severely. Horses suffering from a severe acute flare up of asthma may become visibly distressed as they struggle to breathe. The horse may exhibit a notably elevated heart rate, flared nostrils and sweating. If the horse is showing signs of severe asthma, call your vet immediately.
The symptoms of less severe, chronic equine asthma are similar, but usually less dramatic. The horse may have laboured breathing and / or coughing, particularly during or after exercise or eating. Nasal discharge may also occur, especially after exercise or when the horse’s head is lowered.
Take a look at our in-depth guide for more information on the symptoms of equine asthma.
An acute asthma attack is diagnosed rapidly by examining the horse’s physical symptoms and clinical history. Once the asthma attack is under control, further tests may be carried out.
Equine asthma is often diagnosed using a respiratory tract endoscopy, which allows the vet to view the upper airways and identify any inflammation. A bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) is sometimes used to collect a sample of cells from the lungs.
Once a diagnosis has been made, long term treatment and management can begin.
Whilst there is no cure for equine asthma, treatment and careful management is key to helping prevent flare-ups and allowing the horse to maintain a good quality of life.
Symptoms will usually subside if the horse’s management is changed to avoid contact with allergens. Medication, including bronchodilators, corticosteroids, antihistamines and mucolytics are often used in conjunction with management changes.
Managing Equine Asthma symptoms in horses can involve:
Take a look at our in-depth guide for further information on diagnosing and managing equine asthma.
Avonvale Equine Vet Practice is an independent equine vet clinic based in Ratley, near Banbury. Our professional and dedicated equine vets can provide diagnosis and treatment for equine asthma in horses, and we are always happy to provide advice to our clients.
We offer a free weekly zone visit scheme for routine, non-emergency appointments, as well as 24/7 emergency call-outs covered by our own vets. Register your horse with us today.
In the meantime, you can read our case study to find out how we helped our client manage their horse’s asthma.
