Equine asthma and inflammatory airway disease are among the most common causes of poor performance and reduced welfare in horses, with stable management playing a critical role in prevention.
Horses with poorly managed equine asthma suffer chronic respiratory discomfort, reduced exercise tolerance, and progressive lung damage if management is inadequate. Many horses are worked despite evident respiratory compromise, which represents a significant welfare problem. The environmental nature of most equine airway disease means that owner commitment to management changes — particularly soaking hay and improving bedding — is more important than medication in achieving good long-term outcomes. Welfare-centered approach prioritizes prevention through environmental control.