Especially during shedding season, many horses are susceptible to one infection or another. However, even independently of that, more and more horses seem to cough or "sneeze" occasionally. That's not normal!
What Can Contribute to Respiratory Problems?
The cough reflex in horses is much harder to trigger than in humans. [1] Horses generally don't just cough for no reason. While a classic infection can be a trigger for coughing and a respiratory illness, dust and harmful gases like ammonia can also irritate the airways and contribute to respiratory problems. [2] Particles between 2 and 7 µm in size, sometimes small enough to reach the small lung sacs, can be particularly problematic. Additionally, mold spores, feed mites, bacteria, and their endotoxins (decomposition products) can cause respiratory issues. [3]
Allergies? – Also in Horses!
Unfortunately, more and more horses are experiencing allergies. Like humans, pollen and grasses can be a cause. But also certain feeds, feed mites, and mold spores can trigger allergies in horses, leading to respiratory problems.
Respiratory Problem Doesn’t Always Mean Coughing
But beware: Not all horses with respiratory problems cough! Because the cough reflex in horses is difficult to trigger, a lingering infection may go unnoticed at first. In some horses, respiratory problems may only manifest as reduced performance, lethargy, abdominal breathing, or rapid fatigue. When in doubt, it's advisable to have the horse checked by a veterinarian. [4]
Proper Management is Key
For affected horses, the first step should be adjusting their management. Plenty of fresh air and sufficient opportunities for movement are beneficial not only for sick horses. Especially movement is important to keep the body in motion. Furthermore, light exercise can help loosen mucus for easier coughing. Pay attention to the proper, dust-free bedding. Lastly, regular and thorough mucking out is crucial for optimal management.
Inhalation Can Help
A respiratory illness should always be clarified by a veterinarian. In addition to medication, some horses benefit from inhalation therapy with specialized horse inhalers or a visit to a salt chamber. Inhalation can help liquefy trapped mucus and make it easier to cough up. Medications can also be inhaled, complementing the therapy effectively. [5]
Alternatives to Hay
Of course, always ensure the feeding of hygienically impeccable, dust-free food. As an alternative to hay, haylage can be suitable in some cases. However, many horses cannot tolerate haylage and react with diarrhea and watery feces. Additionally, an opened haylage bale must be consumed fairly quickly, which can be a problem especially in warm temperatures in summer.
Washed or soaked hay can bind or wash out the dust, which brings relief to many horses. Unfortunately, wet hay is not really durable and should be fed immediately. Especially in warm outdoor temperatures, the germ count in the hay increases significantly in a very short time. Digestive problems can also result from this.
Steamed Hay Can Help Horses with Respiratory Problems
To improve the hygienic quality of the feed, steaming the hay can be helpful. The high temperatures generated during the steaming process kill allergenic mold spores, feed mites, and bacteria by 99%. The hay is slightly moist after steaming and can be fed directly after a short cooling period. Another advantage is the shelf life: steamed hay can be fed for up to 24 hours. Unlike washing, hardly any nutrients are washed out during steaming. Additionally, steamed hay is usually particularly palatable. For horses with respiratory problems, a hay steamer can be a valuable addition.
Don't Forget Concentrated Feed
The quality of the concentrated feed is also crucial. The concentrated feed should be stored dry and cool and protected from pests. If grains like oats, for example, are not dried sufficiently, bacteria and mold fungi can easily nest, which can cause problems in the digestive tract and airways. Also, feed mites or their feces can trigger allergies in some horses. [6]
In addition, feed supplements with essential oils can be used supportively. While consuming the concentrate feed, the volatile oils are inhaled and can have a positive effect on the respiratory system. [7]
[1] Dr. Astrid Reitz, "EVERY Cough in Horses is a Warning Sign – Paths to Therapy and Healing": Lecture as part of Sunday morning work at Anja Beran's
[2] Meyer & Coenen (2014) Equine Nutrition, 6th edition, Thieme Verlag Stuttgart
[3] Graubner, C.; Jandova, V.; Gerber, V. (2011) Therapy of chronic inflammatory respiratory diseases; Enke Verlag, Pferdespiegel 2011; 1: 2-8
[4] Christian, M. (2021) Cytology in Respiratory Problems - Indication, optimized sample handling, and significance of findings, Pferdespiegel 2021; 24: 128-132, Thieme Verlag
[5] Niedermaier, G. & Gehlen, H. (2009) Possibilities of inhalation therapy for the treatment of chronic obstructive bronchitis in horses, Pferdeheilkunde 25 (2009) 4 (July/August) 327-332
[6] Wehnert, C. (2011) The Oat Test: Look Deep into the Glass. Cavallo Medical Knowledge.
[7] Reichling, J.; Saller, R. (2012) Fragrant Oils as Remedies for Animals. Animal World, 1:18-19.
