23/11/2021
EQUINE ASTHMA SYNDROME
As we move into the winter, many of us will have to stable our horses more than normal. Unfortunately, one of the risks of increased time spent in the stable is an increased susceptibility to dust and mould induced allergic respiratory disease - aka Equine Asthma Syndrome.
Many horses suffer from this condition in silence, only showing signs when exercised at higher intensities. Whereas others at the other end of the spectrum show classical nasal flaring, increased respiratory noise and difficulty breathing at rest, which can be distressing to both owners and the horse. Whilst treatment can be effective (inhaled or systemic steroids/bronchodilators are mainstays) and stabilising signs, stable management is arguably the most important factor in reducing susceptibility to disease. Focus should be spent on reducing the dust in the breathing zone, and can include:
*Feeding forage from the floor
*Using haylage or steamed hay (if appropriate for your horse) rather than dry hay, which both contain less fungal spores than soaked or dry hay
*Bedding down on cardboard, dust extracted wood shavings or paper over straw or sawdust
*Ideally all horses should be managed the same if possible, as neighbouring horse managements is a big factor in continuation of clinical signs.
*Ensuring enough ventilation is provided through the stable by removing cobwebs and providing openings both at the front and back of the stable, keeping doors open as long as possible even in the cold weather.
*Removing horses to pasture or a separate airspace whilst mucking out
This list is not exhaustive, but careful attention to the above can prevent clinical signs from becoming severe and often irreversible. Should you have any questions, please feel free to ring Iain or Chris who will be happy to discuss your yard and individual horse’s requirements in more depth. 01344 937897🐴
